Robert Tracy, 2nd Viscount Tracy facts for kids
Sir Robert Tracy, 2nd Viscount Tracy (born around 1593, died 1662) was an important English politician. He served in the House of Commons of England, which is like today's Parliament, at different times between 1620 and 1640. During the English Civil War, he was a supporter of King Charles I, fighting with the group known as the Royalists.
Early Life and Family
Robert Tracy was the son of Sir John Tracy and Anne Shirley. His family lived in a place called Toddington in Gloucestershire. Robert studied at Queen's College, Oxford, a famous university, and later became a lawyer. In 1616, King James I made him a knight, which was a special honor.
Robert Tracy married twice. His first wife was Bridget Lyttelton, and they had eight children together. One of their sons, John Tracy, later took over his father's title. His second wife was Dorothy Cocks, and they also had children, including another son named Robert Tracy, who grew up to become a senior judge.
Political Career
Sir Robert Tracy was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for Gloucestershire. He first served from 1620 to 1622. He was elected again in 1626. In April 1640, he was once more chosen as an MP for Gloucestershire in what was known as the Short Parliament. Being an MP meant he helped make laws and decisions for the country.
Role in the English Civil War
The English Civil War was a big conflict in England. Sir Robert Tracy was a strong supporter of King Charles I. He acted as a Commissioner for the King, helping to organize things for the Royalist side. He fought against the Parliament's army in battles at Cirencester and during the Siege of Gloucester in 1643.
In 1645, Sir Robert Tracy surrendered to Colonel Massey, a leader of the Parliament's forces. After the war, he had to pay a fine because he had supported the King. This process was called "compounding for delinquency." His fine started at a very high amount, £4000, but it was later reduced several times, finally settling at £360.
Around 1648, after his father passed away, Robert Tracy inherited the title of Viscount Tracy. This made him a nobleman. In 1650, he promised his loyalty to the new government. He was officially cleared of any wrongdoing in 1652 under a law called the Act of Pardon.
Later Life and Death
Sir Robert Tracy lived to be about 69 years old. He passed away in 1662 and was buried in Toddington on May 2nd.
