Ralph Weldon facts for kids
Ralph Weldon was an English politician and soldier. He was born around 1606 and passed away in 1676. Ralph Weldon served in the House of Commons, which is a part of the English government. He was also a soldier for the Parliamentary army during the English Civil War.
Early Life and Education
Ralph Weldon was the son of Sir Anthony Weldon. His family lived in Swanscombe, a place in Kent, England. In 1620, Ralph Weldon began his studies at Jesus College, Cambridge.
A Soldier in the English Civil War
The English Civil War was a big conflict in England. Ralph Weldon chose to fight for the Parliament's side. He became a leader, known as a commander, in the Parliamentary Army. He was active in places like Taunton, Somerset.
In 1645, he helped in a major military action called the siege of Bristol. A siege is when an army surrounds a city to try and take control of it. Later that same year, he took on a new important role. He became the Governor of Plymouth, which meant he was in charge of that city.
Becoming a Politician
After his time as a soldier, Ralph Weldon became involved in politics. In 1654, he was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for Kent. An MP is someone who represents their area in the government.
He served in the First Protectorate Parliament. He was chosen again in 1656 to represent Kent in the Second Protectorate Parliament. This shows that people in Kent trusted him to speak for them in the government.
