2990 x 4502 px | 25,3 x 38,1 cm | 10 x 15 inches | 300dpi
Data acquisizione:
2011
Altre informazioni:
Thomas Wentworth, 1st Earl of Strafford (13 April 1593 (O.S.) – 12 May 1641) was an English statesman and a major figure in the period leading up to the English Civil War. He served in Parliament and was a supporter of King Charles I. From 1632 to 1639 he instituted a harsh rule as Lord Deputy of Ireland. Recalled to England, he became a leading advisor to the king, attempting to strengthen the royal position against Parliament. When Parliament condemned him to death, Charles signed the death warrant and Wentworth was executed. Strafford met his fate two days later on Tower Hill, receiving the blessing of Archbishop Laud, who was then also imprisoned in the Tower. He was executed before a crowd of about 200, 000 on 12 May 1641. His relative, another Thomas Wentworth, 1st Earl of Cleveland, attended the execution and went on to fight during the Civil War on the king's side. Following news of Strafford's execution, Ireland rose in rebellion in October 1641. This led to more bickering between king and parliament, this time over the raising of an army. When Charles I was executed eight years later, amongst his last words were that he suggested that God had permitted his execution as punishment for his permitting Strafford's execution. This suggests he regretted signing the death warrant. In the course of his career he made many enemies. Yet Strafford was capable of inspiring strong friendships in private life. Sir Thomas Roe speaks of him as "Severe abroad and in business, and sweet in private conversation; retired in his friendships but very firm; a terrible judge and a strong enemy." His appearance is described by Sir Philip Warwick: "In his person he was of a tall stature, but stooped much in the neck. His countenance was cloudy whilst he moved or sat thinking, but when he spoke, either seriously or facetiously, he had a lightsome and a very pleasant air; and indeed whatever he then did he performed very gracefully."
