Thomas Brodrick (1654–1730) facts for kids
Thomas Brodrick (born August 4, 1654 – died October 3, 1730) was an important politician from Ireland and Britain. He served in the Irish House of Commons (like a parliament) from 1692 to 1727 and also in the British House of Commons from 1713 to 1727. He owned land in both Surrey in England and County Cork in Ireland.
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Early Life and Education
Thomas Brodrick was the oldest son of Sir St John Brodrick. His family lived in Midleton, County Cork, Ireland. His mother was Alice Clayton.
In 1670, Thomas started studying law at two important places: Trinity Hall, Cambridge University and Middle Temple in London. He earned a law degree (LLB) in 1677. Later, he inherited land in Wandsworth, England, and also received some of his family's Irish lands when he got married.
A Career in Politics
Thomas Brodrick spent many years working as a politician, helping to make decisions for the country.
Serving in Ireland
Thomas was a representative in the Irish House of Commons several times.
- He represented Midleton from 1692 to 1693.
- Then, he represented County Cork from 1695 to 1699, and again from 1703 to 1713.
- He returned to represent Midleton from 1715 to 1727.
In 1695, he became a member of the Irish Privy Council. This was a group of important advisors to the King in Ireland. He was removed from this group in 1711 by the government at the time, but he was asked to rejoin in 1714.
Working in England
As an adult, Thomas Brodrick lived more in England than in Ireland. He knew many important politicians there.
He was given roles in the English government:
- In 1706, he became the Comptroller of the Salt. This meant he helped manage the taxes on salt.
- From 1708 to 1711, he was a joint comptroller of army accounts, helping to manage the army's money.
Thomas was also elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) in Britain.
- He represented Stockbridge after the elections in 1713 and 1715.
- In the 1722 election, he was elected as the MP for Guildford.
He decided not to run for election in 1727.
Family and Later Years
Thomas Brodrick passed away on October 3, 1730, at his family home in Wandsworth, England, where he was also buried.
He was the brother of Alan Brodrick, 1st Viscount Midleton, who was also a very important person in politics. Thomas married Anne Piggott, and they had one son named Laurence. In 1735, Laurence was appointed to a role called Register of Deeds and Conveyances in Ireland.
