William Collins (Roundhead) facts for kids
William Collins was an English politician. He was a member of the House of Commons (like today's Parliament) from 1654 to 1659. He supported the Parliament's side, known as the Roundheads, during the English Civil War.
Life and Work
William Collins was likely the son of John Collins. During the English Civil War, he became a captain in the army that supported Parliament.
In 1644, he joined the Committee for Worcestershire. This group helped manage the local area for Parliament. Later, in 1650, he became a sub-commissioner for the Grand Excise in Worcestershire. This meant he helped collect taxes.
He continued to serve as a commissioner for Worcestershire. This role involved helping to manage the county.
Becoming a Member of Parliament
In 1654, William Collins was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for Worcester. He served in the First Protectorate Parliament.
He was also an Assessment Commissioner for Worcester in 1656. This job involved setting and collecting taxes.
Collins was re-elected as an MP for Worcester in 1656. He served in the Second Protectorate Parliament. He was elected again in 1659 for the Third Protectorate Parliament.
Governor of Worcester
In 1659, Collins became the Governor of Worcester. This was an important leadership role. On July 9, 1659, a group called the Council of State told him to gather his troops. This was because of a rebellion led by Sir George Booth.
In January 1660, Captain Collins wrote to the Army Commissioners. He explained that his troops were ready to march. However, they had not been paid for a long time. He mentioned they had been working hard for eight weeks. They were keeping the peace and dealing with highway robbers. Collins had even borrowed money to pay his soldiers.
