Robert Bateman (MP) facts for kids
Robert Bateman (born 1560 – died 11 December 1644) was an important English businessman and politician. He was a Member of Parliament, which means he helped make laws for England. He also held important jobs in the City of London and with big trading companies during his lifetime.
Robert Bateman's Early Life and Family
Robert Bateman was born in 1560. His parents were Richard Bateman and Ellen Topleyes. He was baptised in a town called Hartington on 8 September 1561.
He became a successful merchant, which is a person who trades goods, in the City of London. He was also a member of the Worshipful Company of Skinners, which was a powerful group for people who worked with animal skins.
A Busy Career in Politics and Business
In 1614, Robert Bateman was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for Weymouth and Melcombe Regis. This was during a time called the Addled Parliament.
He was also involved with the East India Company, a very large trading company. He was on their committee from 1614 to 1619. From 1617 to 1619, he worked as an auditor for the City of London, checking its financial records.
In 1619, he became the treasurer for the East India Company. He kept this important job until he died. In 1620, he became the leader of the Skinners Company.
Robert Bateman was elected MP for the City of London in 1621. He also helped manage the Levant Company, another trading group, from 1622 to 1624. He was re-elected as MP for the City of London in 1624, 1625, and 1626.
In 1626, he became the City Chamberlain, a key financial role for the City of London. He held this position until his death. He also helped start a special teaching position for religious studies in Ashbourne.
Family and Legacy
Robert Bateman passed away in 1644 when he was 84 years old. He left behind lands in different parts of England.
He was married to Elizabeth Westrow. They had four sons who also became important figures in the City of London. His sons faced challenges due to the Great Fire of London, a huge fire that destroyed much of the city. Two of his sons became very famous: Anthony became the Lord Mayor of London, and William was given the special title of a baronet.
