Thomas Baskerville (general) facts for kids

Sir Thomas Baskerville was an important English general and a Member of Parliament (MP) who lived in the 1500s. He was known for his military skills and leadership during the time of Queen Elizabeth I.

Early Life and Career

Born in the city of Hereford, Sir Thomas Baskerville quickly became a respected military leader. He was known for his bravery and skill in battle.

In 1589, he was sent to France with Lord Willoughby to help King Henry IV. This showed that he was trusted with important missions.

Serving as an MP

Sir Thomas also served in the English government. In 1592, he became a Member of Parliament for Carmarthen borough. This meant he helped make laws and decisions for the country.

After his time as an MP, he continued his military career. In 1594, he led troops to Brittany, a region in France, to help with military efforts there.

Adventures in the Spanish Main

In 1595, Sir Thomas Baskerville joined a big expedition to the Spanish Main. This was a name for the coastal areas of the Americas controlled by Spain. He served under the famous explorer and naval commander, Francis Drake.

Facing Challenges

The expedition faced many challenges. After a defeat at San Juan in December 1595, Sir Thomas became the second-in-command. This happened after the death of John Hawkins, another important leader.

In January 1596, the expedition tried to cross the isthmus of Panama. Their goal was to reach Portobelo, Colón, a port known for its silver. However, this attempt failed.

A Difficult Retreat

The soldiers faced many illnesses, like dysentery. Sir Thomas bravely led his troops for over thirty miles before they had to turn back. Sadly, Francis Drake also died from illness during this time. The expedition had to return to England, with Spanish forces often attacking them along the way.

Final Years and Legacy

Sir Thomas Baskerville continued to serve his country. He commanded the English army in Picardy, a region in France. He was involved in the Siege of Amiens in 1597.

His Death and Burial

Sadly, Sir Thomas died from a fever on June 4, 1597, in a place called Picquigny. His body was brought back to England. He was buried in Old St Paul's Cathedral in London.

His grave and monument were later destroyed in the Great Fire of London in 1666. Today, he is remembered on a modern monument in the cathedral's crypt. This monument lists important graves that were lost in the fire.

Family and Property

Before he died, Sir Thomas had bought land in Berkshire (now Oxfordshire). These included the areas of Sunningwell and Bayworth. His wife, Mary, lived there after his death and was also buried there. Sir Thomas Baskerville left behind a son named Hannibal Baskerville.