Sir John Beckett, 2nd Baronet facts for kids
Sir John Beckett, 2nd Baronet (born May 17, 1775 – died May 31, 1847) was an important British politician and lawyer. He was also a Fellow of the Royal Society, which means he was recognized for his contributions to science. Sir John belonged to the Tory political party, which was one of the main political groups in Britain at the time.
Early Life and Family
John Beckett was the son of Sir John Beckett, who was the 1st Baronet. A "Baronet" is a special title, like a knight, that is passed down through families. His mother was Mary, whose father, Christopher Wilson, was a bishop. A bishop is a high-ranking leader in the church. John Beckett also had family connections to another important church leader, Edmund Gibson, who was the Bishop of London.
In 1817, Sir John Beckett married Lady Anne Lowther. Her father was William Lowther, who was the 1st Earl of Lonsdale, another important noble title.
His Political Journey
Sir John Beckett had a long career in British politics. He was elected to the Parliament, which is where laws are made, several times.
- He first became a Member of Parliament (MP) for Cockermouth in 1818. He held this position until 1821.
- Later, he represented Haslemere from 1826 to 1832.
- His last time in Parliament was for Leeds, from 1835 to 1837.
Important Roles He Held
Sir John Beckett held several key roles in the British government.
- In 1817, he became a member of the Privy Council. This is a group of important advisors to the King or Queen.
- In the same year, he was made Judge Advocate General by the Prime Minister, Lord Liverpool. This job involved advising on military law.
- He held the role of Judge Advocate General until 1827.
- He returned to this important position twice more: first under the Duke of Wellington from 1828 to 1830, and again under Sir Robert Peel from 1834 to 1835.
Later Life and Legacy
Sir John Beckett passed away in Brighton on May 31, 1847, when he was 72 years old. He was buried at All Saints Church, Fulham, in London.
After his death, his younger brother, Thomas Beckett, inherited the Baronet title. A famous member of the Beckett family was his nephew, Edmund Beckett, 1st Baron Grimthorpe, who became a well-known architect.
