List of MPs elected to the English parliament in 1601 Facts for Kids

This is a list of members of Parliament (MPs) elected to the tenth and last parliament in the reign of Queen Elizabeth I in 1601.

The Parliament met on 7 October 1601 and lasted until 29 December 1601 when it was dissolved. This was an important meeting where representatives from different parts of England came together to discuss laws and issues with the Queen.

What Was Parliament in Queen Elizabeth's Time?
The Parliament of 1601
Who Were the Members of Parliament?
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What Was Parliament in Queen Elizabeth's Time?

Sir John Croke, Speaker of the House of Commons in 1601.

During Queen Elizabeth I's reign, Parliament was a bit different from today. It was made up of two main parts: the House of Lords and the House of Commons. The House of Lords included nobles and bishops. The House of Commons was made up of elected representatives, called Members of Parliament (MPs).

These MPs were chosen by certain people in different towns and counties across England. Their job was to speak for the people they represented. They would discuss new laws, taxes, and important issues with the Queen.

The Parliament of 1601

The Parliament of 1601 was the last one held during Queen Elizabeth I's long reign. It was a short but busy meeting, lasting only about two months. During this time, MPs discussed many topics. One of the most famous moments was when Queen Elizabeth gave her "Golden Speech." In this speech, she thanked the MPs for their loyalty and hard work. She also spoke about her love for her people.

This Parliament was important because it showed the relationship between the Queen and her government. It also helped to shape how England was ruled in the years to come.

Who Were the Members of Parliament?

Oliver St John, a Member of Parliament for Bedfordshire.

The Members of Parliament (MPs) were men chosen to represent different areas of England. Each county and many towns, called boroughs, sent MPs to Parliament. These MPs came from various backgrounds. Some were wealthy landowners, others were lawyers, and some were merchants.

Their role was to bring up concerns from their local areas. They also helped to pass laws that affected everyone in the country. The list below shows some of the people who served as MPs in this final Parliament of Queen Elizabeth I.

Sir Walter Raleigh: A famous explorer and writer, he represented Cornwall.
Francis Bacon: A brilliant lawyer and philosopher, he was an MP for Ipswich.
Sir Robert Cecil: A powerful advisor to the Queen, he represented Hertfordshire.
Sir Edward Phelips: A skilled lawyer who later became Speaker of the House of Commons. He represented Somerset.
John Donne: A well-known poet, he was an MP for Brackley.

These individuals, and many others, played a part in the government of England during a very important time in history.