Richard Jennings (politician) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Richard Jennings
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| Born | c. 1619 |
| Died | 8 May 1668 |
| Nationality | English |
| Occupation | Politician |
| Title | Sir |
| Spouse(s) | Frances Thornhurst |
| Children | Sarah Churchill, Duchess of Marlborough Frances Talbot, Countess of Tyrconnel |
| Parent(s) | Sir John Jennings Alice Spencer |
Sir Richard Jennings (born around 1619, died May 8, 1668) was an English nobleman and politician. He was a Member of Parliament (MP), which means he helped make laws for England. He was active in politics from 1642 until his death.
Sir Richard lived during a very important time in English history: the English Civil War. He supported the Parliament, also known as the Roundheads, during this war. He is also famous for being the father of Sarah Churchill, Duchess of Marlborough. Sarah became a close friend and advisor to Queen Anne.
Contents
Early Life and Family
Richard Jennings took over as the head of his family in August 1642. This happened after his father, Sir John Jennings, passed away. Richard then moved to live at Sandridge in Hertfordshire, England.
His mother was Alice Spencer. She was the daughter of Sir Richard Spencer. Richard's parents had a very large family. They had 22 children together!
A Life in Politics
In 1642, Richard Jennings was chosen to be an MP for St Albans. He took over this role from his father.
The English Civil War
During the English Civil War, Richard fought for the side of Parliament. This was a big conflict in England. At one point, soldiers who supported the King captured him. He was held in prison for some time.
After the war, in December 1648, some members were removed from Parliament. Richard Jennings was one of them. This was because he was seen as a moderate, meaning he held less extreme views.
Returning to Parliament
Richard Jennings was re-elected as an MP for St Albans in 1659. This was during a time when Richard Cromwell was leading England.
He played an important part in Parliament again in 1660. Later that year, he was elected as an MP for the Convention Parliament. He was elected one more time in 1661 for the Cavalier Parliament. He continued to serve as an MP until he died in 1668.
His Daughters and Their Influence
Richard Jennings married Frances Thornhurst. She was the daughter of Sir Gifford Thornhurst. Frances brought with her an estate called the manor of Agney, Kent.
Their two daughters, Sarah and Frances, became well-known figures. They were important at the court of King Charles II.
Frances Jennings
Frances was sometimes called "La Belle Jennings," which means "The Beautiful Jennings." In 1664, she became a maid of honour to the Duchess of York. Later, she married Richard Talbot. Through this marriage, she became the Countess of Tyrconnel.
Sarah Jennings
Sarah married John Churchill in 1677. He later became the Duke of Marlborough. Sarah became very powerful and influential during the reign of Queen Anne. She was Queen Anne's closest friend and advisor for many years.
Interestingly, Abigail Masham was a cousin of Sarah. Abigail was the child of Elizabeth Jennings Hill, one of Richard's many siblings. Abigail later became very close to Queen Anne, and her friendship with the Queen eventually replaced Sarah's.
Estates
After Richard Jennings passed away, his lands and properties were first divided between his two daughters. However, Sarah's husband later brought all these properties together under his control.
