Serlo le Mercer facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Serlo le Mercer
|
|
|---|---|
| 3rd and 7th Lord Mayor of London | |
| In office June 1214, 1217, – End of 1214, 1221 |
|
| Preceded by | Roger FitzAlan |
| Succeeded by | William Hardell and in 1223 – Richard Renger |
| Personal details | |
| Born | c. 115? ???? |
| Died | c. between 1209 and 1229 |
Serlo le Mercer was an important leader in London a long time ago. He served as the Mayor of London five times in the early 1200s. Think of him as the main boss or leader of the city back then!
Serlo was also a member of a powerful group called the Worshipful Company of Mercers. This group was like a club for people who traded fancy goods. What's more, he played a part in creating a super important document called the Magna Carta. This document helped set rules for the king!
Contents
What Was a Lord Mayor?
The Lord Mayor of London was the most important person in the city's government. They were chosen by the citizens, usually from the city's wealthy merchants. This role was a big deal!
Leading London City
The Lord Mayor was in charge of many things. They helped keep order, managed trade, and made sure the city ran smoothly. It was a bit like being the mayor of a big city today, but with different powers.
How Leaders Were Chosen
In Serlo's time, London was starting to gain more freedom. Citizens had a say in choosing their leaders. This was a new and exciting idea for the time!
The Mercers' Company
The Worshipful Company of Mercers was one of the oldest and most important "guilds" in London. Guilds were like special clubs or unions for people who did the same kind of work.
What Did Mercers Do?
Mercers were traders who dealt in valuable goods. They often sold fine fabrics like silk and velvet. Being part of this company meant you were a successful and respected merchant.
Why Guilds Were Important
Guilds like the Mercers helped their members. They set rules for trade, trained new workers, and even looked after members who were sick or old. They were a big part of city life.
Serlo and the Magna Carta
The Magna Carta is one of the most famous documents in English history. It was signed in 1215 and was a big step towards fairness and law.
What Was the Magna Carta?
Imagine a time when kings had almost all the power. The Magna Carta was a peace treaty between King John of England and a group of powerful barons. It aimed to limit the king's power and protect the rights of his subjects.
Serlo's Role in History
Serlo le Mercer was one of the people who helped negotiate this important document. This means he was involved in the discussions and agreements that led to the Magna Carta being signed. His involvement shows how important he was in London at that time.
See also
