Robert Harley (died 1673) facts for kids

Sir Robert Harley (born April 6, 1626 – died November 6, 1673) was an English politician. He was a member of the House of Commons, which is like a part of the government, in 1647-1648 and again in 1660. He was also a Fellow of the Royal Society, a group for important scientists and thinkers.

Early Life and Family Background

Robert Harley was the son of another important person, Sir Robert Harley, and his third wife, Brilliana. Brilliana was the daughter of Edward Conway, 1st Viscount Conway. Robert Harley received his education at home from a tutor named Mr. Simons.

Serving During the English Civil War

During the time of the English Civil War, which was a big conflict in England, Robert Harley joined the Parliamentary Army. He served in the army from 1643 to 1647.

Important Roles and Family

After his time in the army, he was given a special job called Steward. This meant he managed the King's lands and towns in places like Cantref Moelynaidd, Knighton, and Presteign in Radnorshire.

Robert Harley married Edith Hinton. She was the widow of Thomas Hinton and the daughter of Thomas Pembrugge. Robert Harley also had a brother named Sir Edward Harley.

Political Career in Parliament

In 1647, Robert Harley was chosen to be a Member of Parliament for the area of Radnor. He served in a group called the Long Parliament.

Exclusion from Parliament

However, in 1648, he was removed from Parliament during an event known as Pride's Purge. He was even put in prison by the army on December 6, 1648.

Return to Parliament

Later, in 1660, Robert Harley was again elected as a Member of Parliament for Radnor. This time, he served in a group called the Convention Parliament.

He was also given back his job as Steward of the King's Manors in 1660. He kept this important role until he passed away.

Later Life and Achievements

In December 1661, Robert Harley helped to create a new army group in a place called Dunkirk. This group was later sent to Tangier and became part of the Tangier Regiment.

Knighthood and Royal Society

During the 1660s, Robert Harley was given the special title of Knight. This meant he was called "Sir Robert Harley." In August 1661, he was also chosen to be a Fellow of the Royal Society. This is a very old and respected group that promotes science.

Other Important Positions

From 1663 to 1664, he worked as the Keeper of the Seals for Barbados, an island in the Caribbean. Later, from 1670 to 1671, he was in charge of collecting certain rents (payments for land) in areas like Herefordshire, Worcestershire, and Staffordshire.

Sir Robert Harley passed away when he was 47 years old. He was buried in a place called Brampton Bryan.