Thomas Berkeley (1575–1611) facts for kids

Sir Thomas Berkeley (born July 11, 1575 – died November 22, 1611) was an important person in English history. He was the son of Henry Berkeley, 7th Baron Berkeley and was expected to inherit his father's noble title. Thomas also served as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Gloucestershire from 1604 until his death in 1611.

Sir Thomas Berkeley's Family Life

Thomas Berkeley was the son of Henry Berkeley, 7th Baron Berkeley. His mother was Katherine Howard. She was the third daughter of Henry Howard, Earl of Surrey.

Sir Thomas Berkeley's Career

Thomas Berkeley started his education at a young age. He began studying at Magdalen College, Oxford, on June 27, 1590, when he was 14 years old. Before that, in 1589, he joined Gray's Inn, which was a place where people studied law.

On July 25, 1603, Thomas Berkeley was made a Knight of the Bath. This special honor was given to him during the coronation of King James I. A "Knight of the Bath" is a knight who is created with a special ceremony involving a bath, symbolizing purification.

In 1604, he was chosen to be a Member of Parliament for Gloucestershire. This meant he represented the people of Gloucestershire in the English Parliament, helping to make laws and decisions for the country.

Thomas Berkeley passed away on November 22, 1611, when he was 37 years old.

Marriage and Children

Thomas Berkeley married Elizabeth Carey. She was the only daughter of George Carey, 2nd Baron Hunsdon. Together, they had two children:

• Theophila was born on December 11, 1596, at her grandparents' house in Blackfriars, London. She later married Robert Coke.
• George Berkeley, 8th Baron Berkeley, was baptized on October 26, 1601, in Low Leyton, Essex. He later inherited his grandfather's title.