Bulstrode Whitelocke

Born in 1605, Bulstrode Whitelocke was an English lawyer who became an important public figure during the years of civil war and republican rule. Educated at Merchant Taylors' School and St John's College, Oxford, he later entered the Middle Temple and was called to the bar, building a reputation in law before moving into national politics.

He served in Parliament and went on to hold major offices under the Commonwealth, including Keeper of the Great Seal. He was also sent as ambassador to Sweden, a role that showed the trust placed in his judgment during Oliver Cromwell's government.

Whitelocke is remembered not only for his political career but also for his writings. His memoirs and historical notes remain valuable because they preserve a close-up account of the personalities, arguments, and uncertainties of mid-17th-century England. He died in 1675.