Peter Middleton (MP) facts for kids

Peter Middleton (born 1603, died 1661) was an English businessman and politician. He was a member of the English Parliament, called the House of Commons, between 1659 and 1660.

Peter Middleton: A Life in Politics

Early Life and Family Connections

Peter Middleton was born in 1603. He was the fourth son of Robert Middleton and Margaret Mounsel. His father, Robert Middleton, was a Member of Parliament (MP) for Weymouth and Melcombe Regis and the City of London.

Peter came from a very well-known family. His uncle, Sir Thomas Myddelton, was a Lord Mayor of London. Another uncle, Sir Hugh Myddelton, was a successful merchant and clothmaker. King James I even made him the Royal Jeweller. Peter's family had many connections to important people in England.

His Career as a Merchant

In 1627, Peter Middleton became a "Turkey merchant." This meant he traded goods with countries in the Middle East. He joined two important trading groups: the Levant Company and the East India Company. These companies managed trade routes to different parts of the world.

Later, Peter lived in Russia. He likely bought furs there for trade. He owned a large amount of shares, called "stock," in the East India Company. From 1659 until his death, he was part of the company's main committee. This group made important decisions for the company.

Serving in Parliament

In 1659, Peter Middleton was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP). He represented the area of Weymouth and Melcombe Regis in the Third Protectorate Parliament.

He was re-elected as an MP for the same area in 1660. This time, he joined the Convention Parliament. Peter was one of five MPs who were asked to help raise money for the country. They needed to get a loan of £2,000 from the City of London. When they faced difficulties, they used their own money to fund the loan. For their help, the House of Commons thanked them on May 25. From August 1660, he also helped collect taxes in London. He tried to become an MP again in 1661 but was not elected.

Personal Life

After July 25, 1657, Peter Middleton married Mary Parry. She was the widow of Fulke Parry, a merchant from London.

Peter Middleton passed away when he was about 58 years old. He was buried at St Dunstan-in-the-East on December 24, 1661.