William Morice (Secretary of State) facts for kids
Sir William Morice (born November 6, 1602, died December 12, 1676) was an important English politician and thinker from Werrington, Devon. He worked as a top government official, serving as Secretary of State from 1660 to 1668. He also helped manage the country's money as a Lord of the Treasury during the same time.
Sir William Morice: Early Life and Political Journey
William Morice studied at Exeter College, Oxford, a famous university. His political career began when he was chosen to be a Member of Parliament (MP) for Devon in 1648. An MP is someone elected to represent people in the country's main law-making body.
However, he was soon removed from Parliament during an event called Pride's Purge. This happened in December 1648. Even so, he was made High Sheriff of Devon in 1651. A High Sheriff was a key local official.
Morice returned to Parliament as an MP for Devon in 1654. This was during the time of the First Protectorate Parliament. He continued to serve in Parliament, representing Devon again. He also represented Newport in Cornwall in the Third Protectorate Parliament.
Helping Restore the Monarchy
Sir William Morice was related to General Monck. General Monck played a big part in bringing the king back to power. This event is known as the Restoration of the monarchy in 1660.
Because of his help, William Morice was knighted in 1660. Being knighted is a special honor given by the king. He also became a Privy Counsellor, which meant he advised the king. He was then appointed Secretary of State for the Northern Department. This was a very important government job. He held this position until he retired in 1668.
Even though he wasn't known as a brilliant minister, he was very useful in the House of Commons. The House of Commons is where elected MPs meet to make laws. In 1660, he was elected as an MP for both Newport and Plymouth. He chose to represent Plymouth. He remained Plymouth's MP for 16 years, until he passed away.
Family Life
Sir William Morice married Elizabeth Prideaux. Her parents were Humphrey Prideaux and Honor Fortescue. Together, William and Elizabeth had several children:
- Sir William Morice (born around 1628, died 1690). He was their oldest son and inherited his father's estate. He also became an MP and was made a baronet in 1661.
- John Morice (born around 1630, died 1705). He also became an MP.
- Nicholas Morice (born around 1640, died 1712). He too served as an MP.
- Anne (born around 1653). She married Sir John Pole, 3rd Baronet.
- Thomasine. She married Sir Walter Moyle.
