Thomas Sheridan (politician) facts for kids

Sir Thomas Sheridan, the elder (born around 1646 – died 1712) was an important person in Irish history. He served as the Chief Secretary for Ireland from 1687 to 1688. This role was like a top advisor to the King for matters in Ireland.

Early Life and Family

Thomas Sheridan was born in a place called St. John's, located in County Meath, Ireland. He was the fourth son of Reverend Dennis Sheridan. Thomas had several siblings, including William Sheridan and Patrick Sheridan, who both became bishops.

Education and Studies

In 1661, Thomas Sheridan started studying at Trinity College, Dublin. He earned his first degree there in 1664. Later, in 1667, he was chosen to be a Fellow of Trinity, which is a special academic position.

Beginning His Career

Thomas Sheridan went to London in 1670 to study law at the Middle Temple. However, he soon stopped his law studies. He was appointed as the Cork Collector of Customs, a job where he managed taxes on goods coming into Cork. This job helped him become very wealthy.

In 1676, he became a "farmer of the Irish Revenue." This meant he collected taxes for the government and then sold his rights to collect them for a large profit of £4,000. In 1677, he received an honorary degree from the University of Oxford. He also became a member of the Royal Society in London in 1679, which is a famous group for scientists.

Around 1680, Thomas Sheridan faced a difficult time. He was accused of being involved in a plot against the government. He even gave evidence to the House of Commons. However, the Parliament was soon closed, and he was set free.

Serving as Chief Secretary

In 1687, King James II of England chose Thomas Sheridan to be the Chief Secretary for Ireland. This was a very important job, helping the King manage Ireland. However, he was accused of not doing his job properly by the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, Richard Talbot, 1st Earl of Tyrconnell. Because of these accusations, he was removed from his position in 1688.

Later Years and Passing

After King James II of England was no longer king, Thomas Sheridan's political career ended. He moved to France and spent his remaining years at the court of James II.

He also wrote some books, including:

• Mr. Sheridan's Speech after his Examination before the late House of Commons (published in London, 1681)
• A Discourse on the Rise and Power of Parliaments (1677)
• The Sheridan Papers (1702)

He also translated a book called A Survey of Princes.

Thomas Sheridan passed away in 1712 in Château de Saint-Germain-en-Laye, near Paris, France.

His Family Life

Around June 1684, Thomas Sheridan married Helen Ravenscroft. She was the widow of George Ravenscroft, who was known for developing a special type of English glass. Helen was the daughter of Thomas Appleby and Helen Gascoigne from Linton-on-Ouse in Yorkshire.

Thomas and Helen had three children together: Therese Helen, Mary, and Sir Thomas Sheridan junior. Their son, Thomas junior, later became a tutor to Prince Charles Edward Stuart.