Thomas Scott (preacher) facts for kids
.jpg)
Thomas Scott (born around 1580, died 1626) was an English preacher. He was known for writing many pamphlets. These writings often spoke against Spain and the Catholic Church. He was a strong Protestant.
Contents
About Thomas Scott
Early Life and Education
Thomas Scott was born around the year 1580. He became a chaplain to King James I in 1616. A chaplain is like a minister or priest who serves a royal family. He studied at the University of St Andrews and later at Peterhouse, Cambridge.
The Vox Populi Pamphlet
Scott was a church leader in Norwich. In 1620, a Spanish ambassador named Count Gondomar came to England. He was there to arrange a marriage between the English prince and a Spanish princess. This was called the Spanish Match.
Thomas Scott did not like this idea. He secretly published a pamphlet called Vox Populi. This Latin name means "Voice of the People." The pamphlet pretended to describe Gondomar's return to Spain. It claimed Gondomar was planning to make England controlled by Spain. It also said he was bribing English leaders.
The story was not true, but many people believed it. It caused a big stir in England. King James I ordered the pamphlet to be stopped. Scott was found out as the author. He had to flee England to avoid trouble.
Life in Utrecht and Later Works
In 1622, Scott moved to Utrecht in the Netherlands. He became a preacher for the English soldiers there. He kept writing pamphlets against Catholics. Many of these were published in England even after he left.
His Death
Thomas Scott was killed on June 18, 1626. An English soldier named John Lambert attacked him as he left church. Scott was with his brother and nephew at the time. The soldier was caught and later executed for the crime.
Thomas Scott's Writings
Vox Populi was one of about 24 pamphlets Thomas Scott wrote. His ideas had an important influence on political thinking in England.
He also wrote some other works, including:
- Philomythie or Philomythologie (1610): This book featured animals, birds, and fish that spoke English.
- The Second Part of Philomythie or Philomythologie (1616): This book contained stories about freedom and friendship.
- Vox Dei (1623): This Latin title means "Voice of God."
