Dressing the part: robes ancient and modern

In the latest post for the Georgian Lords, Dr Robin Eagles considers the symbolism of the robes worn by members of the House of Lords both in Parliament and at coronations, and how some lords went to considerable lengths to ensure that their prized possessions were passed from one generation to the next. One of the most familiar sights of the state opening of Parliament … Continue reading Dressing the part: robes ancient and modern

‘Friendship and alliance’: the marquess of Hertford and the earl of Essex

In the latest Revolutionary Stuart Parliaments article, Dr Patrick Little looks at the relationship between two brothers-in-law who ended up on opposing sides during the civil war. William Seymour, 2nd earl (and later 1st marquess) of Hertford married Frances Devereux, sister of Robert Devereux, 3rd earl of Essex, in 1617. This was a match between two powerful families, both of which had experienced the ups … Continue reading ‘Friendship and alliance’: the marquess of Hertford and the earl of Essex

Seven Jobs for Seven Brothers: The case of Bishop Reynolds of Lincoln

In the latest blog for the Georgian Lords, Dr Stuart Handley considers the case of Bishop Reynolds of Lincoln, one of a minority in the episcopate to stand out against Walpole, possibly because of frustration both at his own lack of promotion, but also his endless efforts to find employment for his children. Richard Reynolds (1674-1744), was chancellor of the diocese of Peterborough (1704-1718), rector … Continue reading Seven Jobs for Seven Brothers: The case of Bishop Reynolds of Lincoln

The Political Lives of Postwar British MPs: Selection Troubles

Out this month, The Political Lives of Postwar British MPs explores the fascinating interviews with former MPs hidden in our oral history project archive. In this post the book’s authors, Dr Emma Peplow and Dr Priscila Pivatto, explore one of the most crucial times of an MP’s career: getting selected for a parliamentary seat… One topic which our oral history interviews heavily focus on – … Continue reading The Political Lives of Postwar British MPs: Selection Troubles

Family history research on historyofparliamentonline.org

As family historians across the country head to London for this weekend’s Who Do You Think You Are Live event, the HOP’s Emma Peplow blogs about using http://www.historyofparliamentonline.org to try and find some of her ancestors… Many people who use our website are researching their family history. With thousands of biographies of MPs from the 14th century onwards, for those of you have an MP … Continue reading Family history research on historyofparliamentonline.org