Robert Sutton, 2nd Baron Lexinton facts for kids
Robert Sutton, 2nd Baron Lexington (born January 6, 1662, died September 19, 1723) was an important English diplomat. A diplomat is someone who represents their country in talks with other countries. He helped King William III and later Queen Anne with important international matters.
His Family
Robert Sutton was the son of Robert Sutton, 1st Baron Lexinton, who was also named Robert Sutton, and his third wife, Mary St. Leger.
In 1691, he married Margaret Hungerford. She was the daughter of Sir Giles Hungerford. Robert and Margaret had three children:
- William George Sutton (born 1697, died 1713) passed away in Madrid. This happened while his father was working there as an ambassador.
- Bridget Sutton (born 1699, died 1734) married John Manners, 3rd Duke of Rutland.
- Leonora Cordelia Margueretta (born around 1700, died 1715).
Robert's Career
Robert Sutton started his career in the military. He was a captain of a troop of horse soldiers. He left the army in 1686.
In 1690, he became a "gentleman of horse" for Princess Anne. She later became Queen Anne. This was a special role at the royal court. He left this job in 1693.
Lord Lexington supported William of Orange becoming king. He worked for King William at court and on important diplomatic missions. In 1689, he was sent as a special envoy to the Elector of Brandenburg. An envoy is a diplomat sent to another country.
Important Roles and Diplomacy
On March 17, 1692, he became a member of the Privy Council. This was a group of important advisors to the King. He was also a "Gentleman of the Bedchamber" to King William from 1692 to 1702.
In 1694, Lexington was sent abroad again. He was a special envoy to the Court in Vienna. He served there until the Treaty of Ryswick was signed in 1697. A treaty is a formal agreement between countries.
From 1699 to 1702, he was a "Lord of Trade." This meant he helped manage trade for the country. From 1712 to 1713, he was the ambassador to the Court of Madrid. He worked on negotiations for the Treaty of Utrecht during this time.
Later Life and Legacy
When George I became king in 1714, Robert Sutton's role in the Privy Council was not renewed. His last diplomatic mission was in 1718. He served as a minister in Vienna again. He passed away on September 10, 1723.
His letters from Vienna were later published as the Lexington Papers in 1851. When Robert Sutton died, his title of Baron Lexington ended. However, his estates went to his daughter Bridget's younger sons. These were Lord Robert and Lord George Manners-Sutton.
Memorial
There is a memorial for Robert Sutton and his wife. You can find it in St Wilfrid's Church, Kelham, Nottinghamshire.
