Robert Coker facts for kids
Robert Coker (born around 1617 – died September 23, 1698) was an English politician. He served in the House of Commons, which is like a main part of the government, at different times between 1656 and 1660.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Robert Coker was the son of William Coker. His family lived in a place called Mappowder in Dorset, England.
When he was 18 years old, in 1635, Robert started studying at Magdalen Hall, Oxford University. After that, in 1637, he went on to study law at a famous legal school called the Middle Temple.
Political Career
Robert Coker held several important jobs in his home county of Dorset.
Justice of the Peace
He worked as a Justice of the Peace for Dorset for many years. This role meant he helped keep law and order in the area. He served from 1646 until 1688, and then again from late 1688 until he passed away.
High Sheriff
In 1646 and 1647, Robert Coker was chosen to be the High Sheriff of Dorset. The High Sheriff was a very important official responsible for enforcing laws and managing elections in the county.
Member of Parliament
Robert Coker was elected to the House of Commons twice. This meant he was a Member of Parliament (MP), representing the people of Dorset.
- In 1656, he became an MP for Dorset in the Second Protectorate Parliament. This was during a time when England was not ruled by a king, but by Oliver Cromwell.
- In 1660, he was elected again to the Convention Parliament. This Parliament was important because it helped bring the king back to power after a period of no monarchy.
Family and Death
Robert Coker lived to be about 80 years old. He was buried in Mappowder, the same place his family was from.
He was married two times.
- His first wife was Joan Browne. They had one daughter together.
- His second wife was Mary Hooper. She was a widow when they married. With Mary, Robert had five sons and one daughter.
