William Burley (politician) facts for kids
William Burley, who passed away on August 10, 1458, was an important figure in English history. He served as a Member of Parliament (MP) for Shropshire an amazing nineteen times! He also held the very important position of Speaker of the House of Commons of England.
William Burley's Life and Career
William Burley was the oldest son of John Burley, who came from Broncroft in Corvedale. His father was also a Member of Parliament for Shropshire, serving six times. William also had a famous relative, Sir Simon de Burley, who was his great-great-uncle.
William Burley took on many important jobs in his life. He worked on special committees called "commissions." He was also a Justice of the Peace (JP), which meant he helped keep law and order in Shropshire. In 1426, he became the High Sheriff of Shropshire, a top official responsible for enforcing laws and managing elections in the county.
His most significant role was serving as a knight of the shire, which is another name for a Member of Parliament (MP). He represented Shropshire in Parliament nineteen times between 1417 and 1455. His last time in Parliament was in 1455.
William Burley was chosen to be the Speaker of the House on March 19, 1436. The Speaker is like the referee or chairperson of the House of Commons, making sure debates run smoothly. He took over from Sir John Tyrrell, who had to leave the role because he was ill.
Later, in 1444, William Burley was chosen as Speaker again. He led the House of Commons until that Parliament ended.
William Burley's Family
William Burley was married twice. His first wife was Ellen, and they had two daughters together. Later, he married Margaret, and they had one daughter named Sibilla.
When William Burley passed away, he did not leave a will. This is called "dying intestate." His property and belongings were passed down to his children. His daughter Joan, who was married to a lawyer named Sir Thomas Littleton, became one of his heirs. His grandson, William Trussell, who was the son of his other daughter Elizabeth, also inherited from him.
