Thomas Sedgwick facts for kids
Thomas Sedgwick (also known as Segiswycke) was an English Roman Catholic religious scholar. He passed away in 1573 while in a prison in Yorkshire. Some people described him as very smart but not always practical.
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Early Life and Education
Thomas Sedgwick studied at the University of Cambridge. He earned his first degree there in 1529 or 1530. In 1531, he became a Fellow at Peterhouse, which is a college within Cambridge University. A Fellow is like a senior member or teacher at the college.
Later, in 1546, he became a Fellow at Trinity College, Cambridge. He even served as the vice-master there from 1554 to 1555. He also earned a special degree, Doctor of Divinity, from the University of Oxford in 1554.
Religious Debates
Thomas Sedgwick was known for taking part in important religious discussions. In 1550, he debated with Martin Bucer and other scholars. He also debated against famous religious leaders like Thomas Cranmer, Hugh Latimer, and Nicholas Ridley in 1554. These debates were about different ideas within the Christian faith during a time of big changes in England.
Career and Roles
During the reign of Queen Mary, Thomas Sedgwick held several important positions. In 1557, he became the Regius professor of divinity at Cambridge. This was a very respected teaching role at the university.
In 1558, he also became a rector (a type of church leader) in Stanhope, Durham and a vicar (another type of church leader) in Gainford, Durham. He had held other church roles earlier, such as rector of Erwarton and vicar of Enfield, Middlesex. He was also the Lady Margaret's Professor of Divinity in 1554.
Changes Under Queen Elizabeth
When Queen Elizabeth became queen, things changed for Thomas Sedgwick. He lost his positions as Regius Professor, rector of Stanhope, and vicar of Gainford. This was because Queen Elizabeth had different religious views than Queen Mary.
Later Life
From 1562 to 1570, Thomas Sedgwick was restricted to living within ten miles of Richmond, Yorkshire. After 1570, it seems he was sent to prison in York, where he passed away in 1573.
