Thomas Carew (died 1681) facts for kids
Sir Thomas Carew was an important English lawyer and politician. He lived from 1624 to 1681. He served in the House of Commons, which is a part of the English government, at different times between 1659 and 1681.
Early Life and Family
Thomas Carew was born in 1624. He was the third son of Sir Richard Carew and his second wife, Grace Rolle. His family lived in Antony, Cornwall.
When he was 17, Thomas began studying law at a place called Inner Temple in 1641. He became a qualified lawyer in 1651.
During this time, England was going through a big conflict called the English Civil War. Thomas Carew did not fight in this war. However, his half-brother, Alexander, faced serious consequences for his actions during the war.
Becoming a Politician
In 1659, Thomas Carew was chosen to be a Member of Parliament for Callington. This meant he would represent the people of Callington in the government.
The next year, in April 1660, he was elected as an MP again, this time for Mitchell. This was for a special meeting of Parliament called the Convention Parliament.
After the King returned to power, Thomas Carew's brother, John, was punished for his part in the events that led to the King's father being executed. Thomas Carew showed his loyalty to the new King. Because of this, the King gave him some properties.
Thomas also gained more land near Exeter when he got married. He became a local official in Devon and Cornwall, helping to manage taxes and keep the peace. In 1671, he was given the title of Knight, becoming "Sir Thomas Carew."
Serving Exeter
In 1676, Sir Thomas became the "recorder" of Exeter. This was an important legal job in the city. He also became a Deputy Lieutenant, helping to organize the local military.
Because he was the recorder of Exeter, people encouraged him to run for MP in Exeter in 1679. He tried but did not win that election. However, he ran again for Exeter in 1681 and was successfully elected as their MP.
Later Life
Sir Thomas Carew passed away at the age of 57. He was buried in St Thomas, a place near Exeter.
He married Elizabeth Cupper in 1661. They had eight children together, three daughters and five sons. One of his sons, also named Thomas, later became an MP for Saltash.
