Robert Rodger facts for kids

Robert Rodger (born around 1650, died around 1720) was an important Scottish merchant. He lived in the late 1600s and early 1700s. He was the Lord Provost of Glasgow twice. This was a very important job, like being the mayor of the city. One of his terms was during the Act of Union 1707. This act joined Scotland and England to create Great Britain. He also served as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Glasgow from 1708 to 1710.

Robert Rodger's Life Story

Robert Rodger was born in Glasgow. His father, William Rodger, made leather goods. He was also a "Burgess" of the city. This meant he was a free citizen with special rights. In 1655, Robert's father moved to Ireland. However, his family stayed in Glasgow.

Becoming a City Leader

Robert became a merchant, trading goods with places like the Americas and the West Indies. This helped him become successful. In 1680, he also became a Burgess. He started taking on important roles in Glasgow's government:

• From 1693, he was the City's Treasurer. He managed the city's money.
• From 1695, he served as a "Bailie" many times. A Bailie was like a city council member or a local judge.
• From 1697 to 1699, he was the Dean of Guild. This person was in charge of the city's trade and crafts.

Serving as Lord Provost

In 1707, Robert Rodger became the Lord Provost of Glasgow. He took over from John Aird. The Lord Provost job lasted for two years. Robert and John Aird took turns holding the position. Robert finished his second term as Lord Provost in 1713.

Glasgow During the Union

The year 1707 was very important for Scotland. This was when the Act of Union 1707 happened. This act formally joined Scotland and England. During this time, Robert Rodger helped count the people in Glasgow. The city's population was about 12,766 people. Most people were described as "moderate and frugal," meaning they lived simply and carefully.

Member of Parliament

Because of new election rules after the Union, Robert Rodger was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP). He represented Glasgow in the British Parliament in London. He served from 1708 to 1710. He was part of the Whig party. This party strongly supported the English government.

In Parliament, Robert spoke about important issues:

• In February 1709, he spoke against rules about fishing.
• In March 1709, he spoke against the Royal African Company.

Traveling to London for Parliament was very expensive back then. MPs had to pay for their own journeys. This might be why Robert Rodger decided not to run for re-election in 1710. Another person, Thomas Smith II, took his place.

Later Life and Burial

Robert Rodger passed away around 1720. He was buried in his family's burial spot. This place was called Blackfriars, which is now known as the Ramshorn Cemetery in Glasgow.

Robert Rodger's Family

In 1680, Robert Rodger married Margaret Caldwell. Her father, John Caldwell, was also a merchant in Glasgow. Robert Rodger was the uncle of Hugh Rodger. Hugh Rodger also became a Lord Provost of Glasgow later, serving from 1732 to 1734.