Robert More (botanist) facts for kids
Robert More (born May 1703 – died January 5, 1780) was an English politician and a keen plant expert. He lived at Linley Hall, near Bishop's Castle, in Shropshire. He was also a member of the Royal Society, which is a famous group for scientists. Robert More served in the House of Commons, which is part of the British Parliament, between 1727 and 1761.
Early Life and Education
Robert More was the son of Robert More, who used to be a merchant in London. His mother was Sarah Walcot. Robert's grandfather was Samuel More, a well-known figure in Parliament.
Robert More went to Queens' College, Cambridge in 1721. He studied hard and earned his first degree in 1725. He continued his studies and became a Fellow of the college. In 1729, he was chosen to be a Fellow of the Royal Society, which shows he was respected in the world of science.
Political Career and Journeys
Robert More became a Member of Parliament (MP) for Bishop's Castle in 1727. This was a special seat for his family, as his great-grandfather, Richard More, had also been an MP for the same area.
As an MP, Robert More usually supported the government's plans. He was re-elected without anyone running against him in 1734. He also served as the mayor of Shrewsbury in 1737, which is an important local leadership role.
After leaving Parliament in 1741, Robert More started building his home, Linley Hall, in 1742. He then traveled a lot around Europe. In 1749, he visited Portugal and Madrid, where he met important people and helped with government improvements. He spent much of 1750 in Italy, then returned to England through places like Vienna. In 1750, he married Ellen Wilson. The next year, 1751, he traveled to Scandinavia, Russia, and northern Germany before coming home.
In 1753, people in Shrewsbury asked Robert More to become an MP again. He agreed and was elected without opposition for Shrewsbury in 1754. During this time, he gave two speeches in Parliament. He decided not to run for election again in 1761.
Later Life and Lasting Impact
Robert More was very passionate about plants. He was a good friend of Linnæus, a famous Swedish scientist who created the system for naming plants and animals.
In 1768, Robert More married his second wife, Catherine More. He passed away on January 5, 1780, at the age of 76. He had two sons from his first marriage. To honor his love for plants, a type of plant called Moraea was named after him.
His great-grandson, Robert Jasper More, also became an MP for areas in Shropshire, continuing the family's tradition of serving in Parliament.
