Sir John Pakington, 2nd Baronet facts for kids
Sir John Pakington, 2nd Baronet (born August 13, 1621 – died 1680) lived at Westwood House in Worcestershire, England. He was an English politician who served in the House of Commons, which is like a part of today's Parliament. He was a Member of Parliament at different times between 1640 and 1679. Sir John was a strong supporter of the King, King Charles I, during the English Civil War. People who supported the King were often called Cavaliers.
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Early Life and Family Connections
Sir John Pakington was the son of Sir John Pakington, 1st Baronet and Frances Ferrers. Sadly, his father and grandfather passed away when he was very young. Because of this, he became the responsibility of Thomas Coventry, who later became Lord Coventry. This meant Lord Coventry helped look after Sir John and his family's affairs.
In 1624, Sir John inherited his father's title, becoming the 2nd Baronet. A year later, in 1625, he also inherited the large family estate called Westwood from his grandfather.
Sir John's Political Journey
Serving in Parliament
Sir John Pakington began his political career in April 1640. He was chosen to be a Member of Parliament for Worcestershire in what was known as the Short Parliament. Later that year, in November 1640, he was elected again, this time for Aylesbury, to serve in the Long Parliament.
Role in the English Civil War
During the English Civil War, Sir John was a loyal supporter of King Charles I. Because of his support for the King, he was removed from Parliament in August 1642. He continued to serve the King, but he was eventually captured and held prisoner in the Tower of London.
After the war, Sir John Pakington faced some challenges. He was present at a gathering before the Battle of Worcester. Because of this, he was accused of disloyalty to the new government. However, no one would speak against him in court, possibly because he had been captured by Scottish forces earlier. Even so, he was still ordered to pay a fine.
Return to Public Service
After the King was restored to power in England, a period known as the English Restoration, Sir John Pakington once again became a Justice of the Peace. This role meant he helped keep law and order in his local area.
In 1661, he was re-elected as a Member of Parliament for Worcestershire. He served in this Parliament, often called the Cavalier Parliament, until 1679. Sir John was involved in opposing what was believed to be a plan by a group of people called Presbyterians, though they claimed the plan was not real.
Sir John Pakington passed away when he was 58 years old.
Family Life
Sir John Pakington married Dorothy Coventry. She was the daughter of his guardian, Lord Coventry. Together, they had one son and two daughters. His son, Sir John Pakington, 3rd Baronet, inherited his title after his death.