William Towerson facts for kids
William Towerson (died around 1630) was an important English businessman and politician. He served in the House of Commons, which is like a part of today's Parliament, at different times between 1621 and 1629.
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Who Was William Towerson?
William Towerson was a successful merchant, which means he traded goods for a living. He was also involved in politics, helping to make decisions for England. His life shows us what it was like to be an important person in the 1600s.
Early Career and Business Life
William Towerson was a member of the Worshipful Company of Skinners. This was a powerful group of merchants who worked with animal skins. Being part of such a company was very important for business in those days.
He also played a big role in other organizations:
- From 1610 to 1613, he was the first Deputy-Governor of the Irish Society. This group helped manage land and trade in Ireland.
- From 1619 to 1622, he was on the Committee of the East India Company. This company was famous for trading spices and other goods from places like India.
Towerson stopped working with the East India Company after a sad event. His brother, Gabriel Towerson, was involved in a difficult situation known as the Amboyna massacre. This event led William to retire from the company.
A Life in Politics
William Towerson also had a career in politics. He became a Member of Parliament, which meant he was chosen to represent people in the House of Commons. This was where laws were discussed and made.
- In 1621, he was elected as a Member of Parliament for the City of London.
- Later, in 1628, he was elected as an MP for Portsmouth. He served until 1629.
His time in Parliament ended when King Charles I decided to rule without Parliament for eleven years. This period is known as the "Personal Rule" because the King made decisions mostly by himself.
Later Life and Legacy
William Towerson passed away between May 7, 1630, and January 16, 1631. We know this because his will (a document about his wishes for his property) was written on the first date and officially approved on the second.
Towerson's life shows how people could be involved in both business and government during the 17th century. He was a key figure in important trading companies and also helped represent people in Parliament.
