Born 1552.—Died 1618.—Edward VI.—Mary.—Elizabeth.—James I.
Was born at Hayes, in Devonshire, and was one of the “Devonshire Worthies.” He was the son of a Devonshire gentleman of small fortune, who rose rapidly in favour with Queen Elizabeth from his wit, good looks, and great talents. He was sent on a command to Ireland, and afterwards took great part in colonizing Virginia in North America. In the reign of James I. he was unjustly accused of high treason and sent to the Tower, where he wrote his famous “History of the World.” He was beheaded at Westminster, though his guilt was never proved.
FRANCIS BACON,
Born 1561.—Died 1626.—Elizabeth.—James I.—Charles I.
Lord Verulam, was born in London. This extraordinary man was a great statesman and lawyer, an eminent writer, and has been called the Light of Science and Father of Experimental Philosophy. He was made Royal Keeper and Lord Chancellor under James I., and then trafficked in the decisions of the woolsack. After a career of unbounded expense and the most unprincipled use of his high offices, Bacon was impeached and sentenced to a kind of imprisonment within twelve miles of the court. For five years he presented the pitiful sight of vast genius, united to a total want of principle or high character, and with all his splendid gifts he died despised and in disgrace.
BEN JONSON.
Born 1574—Died 1637.—Elizabeth.—James I.—Charles I.
This celebrated English poet and dramatist was born in Westminster. After serving to his credit as a soldier in the Netherlands, he became a player and dramatic writer. He was distinguished for his wit, learning, and various information, as well as for his writings. He was made Poet Laureate by James I.
JOHN HAMPDEN.
Born 1594.—Died 1643.—James I.—Charles I.