Robert Cooke (Parliamentarian) facts for kids

Sir Robert Cooke (born around 1598, died 1643) was an English politician. He was a member of the House of Commons, which is like a part of today's government, from 1640 to 1643. He also fought for the Parliamentary side in the English Civil War.

Early Life and Achievements

Robert Cooke was the son of Sir William Cooke and his wife Joyce. He went to Magdalen College, Oxford and finished his studies there in 1615. Later, in 1617, he joined Gray's Inn, which was a place where people studied law.

In 1621, he was given the title of Knight, becoming "Sir Robert Cooke." He owned a large estate called Highnam. In 1639, he was one of seven people chosen to survey, or officially check, the Forest of Dean.

Political Career

In April 1640, Robert Cooke was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for Gloucestershire. This happened during a short meeting of Parliament known as the Short Parliament.

Later that year, in November 1640, he tried to become an MP for Tewkesbury. There was a small issue with the election results, but he eventually became an MP for Tewkesbury in August 1641. He stayed in this role until he passed away in 1643.

Role in the English Civil War

During the English Civil War, Sir Robert Cooke supported the Parliament. He was given permission by Sir William Waller to create his own group of soldiers, called a regiment. He became a colonel, which is a high-ranking officer, in the Parliamentary army.

He was also put in charge of the towns of Cirencester and Tewkesbury. He served as the Governor of Cirencester and then Governor of Tewkesbury in April 1643.

Family Life

Sir Robert Cooke was married twice. His first wife was Dorothy Fleetwood. Later, he married Jane Herbert. Jane was the widow of a famous poet and priest named George Herbert.

Robert Cooke had a son named Edward. Edward later followed in his father's footsteps and also became an MP for Tewkesbury.