Richard Holland (Parliamentarian) facts for kids

Richard Holland (died 1661) was an English politician. He was a supporter of the Parliamentary side during the English Civil War. He served in the House of Commons, which is like a part of the government, between 1654 and 1656.

Early Life and Family

Richard Holland was the oldest son of Edward Holland. His family lived in a place called Denton. Richard took over his father's estate in Denton in 1630. He also had an uncle, also named Richard Holland, who was a Member of Parliament in 1586.

Role in the English Civil War

The English Civil War was a big conflict in England. It was fought between those who supported the King (called Cavaliers) and those who supported Parliament (called Roundheads). Richard Holland was a strong supporter of Parliament.

In 1642, he helped lead the defense of Manchester. This was against the forces of the Earl of Derby, who supported the King. Richard Holland became a colonel, which is a high-ranking officer, in the army that served the Parliament. He was also a strong believer in the Presbyterian party, a group with certain religious and political ideas.

Serving in Parliament

In 1654, Richard Holland was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for Lancashire. This was for the First Protectorate Parliament. An MP is someone elected to represent people in the government.

He was elected again as an MP for Lancashire in 1656. This time it was for the Second Protectorate Parliament. These Parliaments happened during a time when England was not ruled by a king, but by Oliver Cromwell, who was called the Lord Protector.

Later Life and Legacy

Richard Holland passed away in 1661. He had two daughters. His daughter Ann married Edward Kenyon of Prestwich. His other daughter, Frances, married Francis Beresford of Bentley.