Sir William Smyth, 1st Baronet facts for kids

Sir William Smyth, 1st Baronet (born around 1616 – died 1696) was an English politician. He was a member of the House of Commons, which is like a part of the government, at different times between 1640 and 1679. During the English Civil War, he supported the King's side, known as the Royalists.

Early Life and Education

William Smyth was the son of Robert Smyth and Martha Smyth from Buckinghamshire. When he was about 18 years old, in 1635, he started studying at Trinity College, Oxford. He later left without finishing his degree. In 1641, he became a lawyer, training at a place called Middle Temple.

A Politician During the Civil War

In 1641, William Smyth was chosen to be a Member of Parliament for a town called Winchelsea. This was during a time known as the Long Parliament.

He strongly supported King Charles I during the English Civil War. He even became the governor of Chepstow Castle, which was an important job. Because of his support for the King, he was given a special degree from Oxford in 1642. However, in 1644, he was not allowed to be a Member of Parliament anymore because of his Royalist views.

After the Monarchy Returned

After the King's power was brought back in England, an event called the Restoration of the Monarchy, William Smyth received a special honor. On May 10, 1661, he was made a Baronet of Redcliff, Buckinghamshire. A Baronet is a title of honor, similar to a knight, that can be passed down in a family.

In the same year, 1661, he was again elected as a Member of Parliament. This time, he represented Buckingham in a new group of politicians called the Cavalier Parliament.

Later Life and Family

Sir William Smyth lived to be about 80 years old. He passed away in Stepney in 1696. He had one son who survived him, named Thomas. Thomas inherited his father's title and became the 2nd Baronet.