Robert Beake facts for kids
Robert Beake (died 22 September 1708) was an English politician. He was a member of the House of Commons. This is like the main law-making group in England. He served there at different times between 1654 and 1679. Robert Beake supported the Parliamentary side during the English Civil War. This was a big fight in England about who should have power.
Contents
Robert Beake's Early Life and Role
Robert Beake was a leader in the city of Coventry. He was an alderman, which is a senior member of the city council. He also worked as a draper, selling cloth. Beake joined the army that supported Parliament.
In 1654, he was chosen to be a Member of Parliament for Coventry. This was for the First Protectorate Parliament. He became the mayor of Coventry in 1655. He was then elected as an MP for Coventry again in 1656. This was for the Second Protectorate Parliament.
A Strict Leader in Coventry
In 1657, Robert Beake wrote a diary. This diary showed how serious he was about his duties. He made sure people followed strict rules, especially on Sundays.
For example, people who traveled on Sundays were punished. They might be put in the stocks or a cage. Even a man traveling to be a godfather was fined. On Sundays, Beake would watch people in the park. He wanted to see who was "idly walking" there.
He also worked to stop the sale of drinks without a license. He personally visited many places selling drinks in three different areas of the city. He was re-elected as an MP for Coventry in 1659. This was for the Third Protectorate Parliament.
Later Political Career
In 1660, Beake was elected to the Convention Parliament. However, a group in Parliament said his election was not fair. In the next election, he lost his seat. William Jesson won instead.
Beake was elected as an MP for Coventry one more time in 1679. He only served for a short time. During this time, he voted for the first Exclusion Bill. This bill was about who could become the next king or queen.
Remembering Robert Beake
Robert Beake is remembered in Coventry today. A major road in the north of the city is named Beake Avenue after him. His old diary is kept safe in the local record office.
