Robert Bristow (1688–1737) facts for kids

Robert Bristow (born 1688, died 1737) was an important English politician from Micheldever in Hampshire. He came from a family deeply involved in politics, with his father and brother also serving in the British Parliament.

Who Was Robert Bristow?

Robert Bristow was born on October 18, 1688. He lived during a time when Great Britain was growing in power and influence around the world. His family had a history of public service, which likely inspired his own career.

Bristow's Family Background

Robert Bristow's father, also named Robert, was a Member of Parliament (MP). An MP is a person elected by the public to represent them in the country's main law-making body, the Parliament. Robert's brother, John, also became an MP, showing that politics was a big part of their family life.

Robert Bristow's Career

Robert Bristow had a busy career, working in both finance and government. He held important positions that helped shape the economy and run the royal household during his time.

Working with Big Companies

Bristow was a director at two very powerful organizations. From 1713 to 1716, and again from 1718 to 1720, he was a director of the Bank of England. The Bank of England is like the central bank for the country, helping to manage money and the economy. He was also a director of the East India Company from 1716 to 1717. The East India Company was a huge trading company that brought goods like spices and tea from Asia to Britain. Being a director meant he helped make big decisions for these important companies.

Serving in Parliament

Robert Bristow was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) for a place called Winchelsea. He served as an MP for a very long time, from 1708 until his death in 1737. This meant he helped create laws and discuss important issues in the British Parliament for nearly 30 years.

Role in the Royal Household

From 1720 until he passed away, Bristow worked for the royal family. He held a special job called Clerk of the Green Cloth. This role was part of the royal household, helping to manage the daily needs and finances of the King and his family. It was a position of trust and responsibility.

Bristow's Family Life

Robert Bristow married a woman named Sarah. Her father was Sir John Ward, who was also an MP. Following in the family tradition, Robert and Sarah's son, also named Robert, also became a Member of Parliament. This shows how political service was passed down through generations in the Bristow family.