Sir James Langham, 2nd Baronet facts for kids

Sir James Langham, 2nd Baronet (born around 1621 – died August 22, 1699) was an English politician. He lived in Cottesbrook, Northamptonshire. Sir James served in the House of Commons, which is like a part of the government, at different times between 1656 and 1662. He married four times, but he did not have any children who could inherit his special title.

Early Life and Education

James Langham was the oldest son of Sir John Langham, 1st Baronet and his mother, Mary Bunce. He went to Emmanuel College, Cambridge, a famous university, in 1638. Later, in 1640, he joined Lincoln's Inn to study law. This was a place where people learned to become lawyers.

In 1660, James Langham was given the title of "Knight." This was an honor from the King. In 1664, he became the Sheriff of Northamptonshire. A Sheriff was an important local official responsible for law and order.

Political Career

Sir James Langham was involved in politics during a busy time in England.

Serving in Parliament

In 1656, people chose Langham to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for Northamptonshire. An MP is someone elected to represent their area in the government. He served in the Second Protectorate Parliament.

He was elected again in 1659 as an MP for Northampton. This time, he was part of the Third Protectorate Parliament.

Elections and Challenges

In 1661, Langham was elected as an MP for Northampton once more. This was for the Cavalier Parliament. However, this election was later cancelled on June 13. This means the results were not accepted.

He tried again and was elected MP for Northampton in February 1662. But this election was also cancelled on April 26, 1662.

Later Life and Family

When his father passed away in 1671, James Langham inherited the title of Baronet. This was a special title that could be passed down in a family.

In 1678, he was chosen to be a Fellow of the Royal Society. This is a very old and respected group for scientists and thinkers.

Marriages

Sir James Langham married four times during his life.

• His first wife was Mary Alston. She was the daughter of Sir Edward Alston.
• His second wife was Elizabeth Hastings. She was known for being very religious. Elizabeth was the daughter of the poet Lady Lucy and Ferdinando Hastings, 6th Earl of Huntingdon. She brought a large sum of money, £10,000, with her marriage.
• His third wife was Penelope. She was the daughter of John Holles, 2nd Earl of Clare.
• His fourth wife was Dorothy. She was the daughter of John Pomeroy from Devon.

Sir James Langham passed away in Kensington and was buried in Cottesbrooke, Northamptonshire. He did not have any sons to inherit his baronetcy. So, his brother, William, became the next Baronet. Sir James also had a daughter who married Henry Booth, 1st Earl of Warrington.