Thomas Kelsey facts for kids

Thomas Kelsey was a man who started as a simple London tradesman but became an important leader during the time of Oliver Cromwell. He played a big part in the English government during the 1600s.

Thomas Kelsey's Early Life and Military Career

Thomas Kelsey began his life as a tradesman in London. This means he worked in a business, like a shopkeeper or craftsman. But he soon joined the New Model Army. This was the army of the Parliament during the English Civil War.

Kelsey fought bravely for Parliament. He showed great dedication. Because of his efforts, he quickly rose through the ranks. By 1645, he became a major-general. This was a very high military position. In 1646, he became a lieutenant-colonel in Colonel Ingoldsby's regiment.

After the war ended, Kelsey continued to serve. He was chosen as the Deputy-Governor of Oxford. This meant he helped manage the city. In 1651, he was also made a lieutenant of Dover Castle. This was an important fortress.

Thomas Kelsey and the Government

During the early 1650s, Thomas Kelsey was part of a religious group. They were called the 'Fifth Monarchist congregation' in London. Their leader was John Simpson. Kelsey supported Oliver Cromwell when Cromwell set up the Protectorate. The Protectorate was a period when England was ruled by a Lord Protector, not a king.

Kelsey was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Sandwich in Kent. This happened during the First Protectorate Parliament. He also became a Major-General for Surrey and Kent. This was during a time called the Rule of the Major-Generals. During this period, military leaders helped govern different parts of England.

Thomas Kelsey was elected again for Dover. This was during the Second Protectorate Parliament. He supported John Desborough's idea. Desborough wanted the Major-Generals to be a permanent part of the government.

Later Life and Legacy

In 1659, the Protectorate government ended. Thomas Kelsey then supported John Lambert. Lambert tried to stop the return of the king. This event was known as the English Restoration.

Major-General Kelsey lost his military positions. This happened under the recalled Rump Parliament in January 1660. He was also told to leave London. When King Charles II returned to England in May 1660, Kelsey felt it was safer to leave. He moved to the Netherlands.

In 1666, Kelsey was told to return to England. Others, like John Desborough, also had to come back. Not much is known about his life after this. Some people believe he became a brewer. A brewer makes beer. Thomas Kelsey is thought to have died around 1680.