Thomas Belasyse, 1st Earl Fauconberg facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
The Earl Fauconberg
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Thomas Belasyse, aged 24
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| Lord Lieutenant, North Riding | |
| In office 1660–1687 |
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| Monarch | Charles II James II |
| Envoy to the Republic of Venice | |
| In office 1669–1672 |
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| Monarch | Charles II |
| Special Envoy to France | |
| In office 1658–1659 |
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| Monarch | Commonwealth of England |
| Personal details | |
| Born | ca 1627 Newburgh Priory, Yorkshire |
| Died | 31 December 1700 (aged 73) Sutton House, London |
| Resting place | St Michael's, Coxwold |
| Nationality | English |
| Spouses | Mildred Saunderson Mary Cromwell (1637-1713) |
| Parents | Henry Belasyse (1604–1647) Grace Barton |
| Alma mater | Trinity College, Cambridge |
| Occupation | Politician, diplomat |
Thomas Belasyse, 1st Earl Fauconberg (born around 1627 – died December 31, 1700) was an important English nobleman. He lived during a time of big changes in England, including the English Civil War. Thomas Belasyse first supported the Parliament against the King. He became very close to Oliver Cromwell, who was a powerful leader of Parliament. Thomas even married Cromwell's third daughter, Mary.
Later, when the King returned to power, Thomas Belasyse changed his support. He became a member of the King's special council, called the Privy Council, under King Charles II. He was later given the high title of Earl by King William III.
Contents
Early Life and Family History
Thomas Belasyse was the only son of Henry Belasyse and Grace Barton. His family had a long history, but they were divided during the English Civil War. His grandfather, also named Thomas Belasyse, was a Royalist. This meant his grandfather supported the King. He even had to leave England after his side lost a big battle in 1644.
But young Thomas Belasyse chose a different path. Unlike his father and grandfather, he supported the Parliament. This group was fighting against the King. Thomas became a strong follower of Oliver Cromwell. In 1657, he married Cromwell's third daughter, Mary. Thomas's father died in 1647. In 1652, Thomas inherited the title of Viscount Fauconberg from his grandfather.
A Career in Public Service
After the English Civil War, the King returned to power in an event called the Restoration. Thomas Belasyse then switched his support back to the King. He was given important jobs by King Charles II.
- He became a member of the Privy Council. This was a group of trusted advisors to the King.
- He was made Captain of the Guard, a high-ranking position.
- He served as England's ambassador in Venice, which is now part of Italy. This meant he represented England in another country.
- He was also the Lord Lieutenant of the North Riding of Yorkshire from 1660 to 1692. This role meant he was the King's main representative in that area.
Thomas Belasyse was one of the noblemen who invited William of Orange to become King of England. Because of his support, King William III made him Earl Fauconberg on April 9, 1689. This was a very high honor.
Later Life and Legacy
Earl Fauconberg passed away on December 31, 1700. He was buried in his family's special burial place in Coxwold. He did not have any children of his own. Because of this, his title of Earl ended when he died. However, his other title, Viscount, passed to his nephew, Thomas Belasyse, 3rd Viscount Fauconberg.
Family Life
Thomas Belasyse was married twice. His first marriage was to Mildred Saunderson on July 3, 1651. She passed away in 1656. On November 18, 1657, he married Mary Cromwell. Mary was the third daughter of the famous Oliver Cromwell. She lived for thirteen years after her husband, passing away in 1713.
Images for kids
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The coat of arms for the Fauconberg family.
