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Sir Arthur Onslow, 1st Baronet facts for kids

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Sir Arthur Onslow (born in 1622, died 1688) was an important English politician. He served in the House of Commons, which is a main part of the government, for many years. He was known for his work during a very busy time in England's history.

Sir Arthur Onslow's Story

Early Life and Education

Arthur Onslow was the oldest son of Sir Richard Onslow. He was born in 1622. His father was a key supporter of the Parliament during the English Civil War. Arthur went to Queen's College, Oxford in 1639 to study. Later, in 1640, he studied law at Lincoln's Inn.

A Life in Politics

In 1641, Arthur Onslow became a Member of Parliament (MP) for Bramber. An MP is a person elected to represent an area in the House of Commons. He was very involved in politics during the English Civil War.

After the war, he continued his political career. He was elected MP for Surrey in 1654. He was re-elected for Surrey in 1656 and again in 1659. In 1660, he became the MP for Guildford. Then, in 1661, he was re-elected as MP for Surrey once more.

In 1674, Sir Arthur was given a special title called a baronetcy. This meant he would become a "Baronet" after his father-in-law, Thomas Foote, passed away without other heirs. He officially became a baronet in 1687. However, he died less than a year later, in 1688. His oldest son, Richard, then took over the title.

Family and Legacy

Sir Arthur Onslow was married twice. His first wife was Rose Stoughton, who passed away in 1647. They did not have any children together.

His second wife was Mary Foote. She was the daughter of Sir Thomas Foote, a very rich merchant from London. Sir Arthur and Mary had several children, including:

  • Richard (1654–1717): He became a very important person in government. He was known as Baron Onslow. He also served as the Speaker of the House of Commons from 1708 to 1710. This is a very high position in Parliament. Richard had a son named Thomas, who became the 2nd Lord Onslow.
  • Foot Onslow (born 1655, died 1710): He worked as a Commissioner of Excise, which involved collecting taxes.
  • Arthur: He never married.
  • Henry: He also never married.
  • Mary: She married Sir Robert Reeve, 2nd Baronet.
  • Catherine Onslow (died 1731): She married Sir William Clerke, 3rd Baronet.
  • Elizabeth: She never married.
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