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The Cecils: England's Second Family

T.S. Eliot

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The Cecils were one of the most powerful and influential families in English history. For over two centuries, they played a major role in shaping the country's political, religious, and cultural landscape. This book tells the story of the Cecils, from their humble beginnings to their rise to prominence. It is a story of ambition, intrigue, and betrayal, but it is also a story of love, loyalty, and family.

The Cecils: England's Second Family

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1665 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	18 pages

Early History

The Cecils can trace their ancestry back to the 12th century, but it was not until the 16th century that they began to rise to prominence. The family's fortunes changed when Richard Cecil married Anne Boleyn, the second wife of Henry VIII. Boleyn's execution in 1536 did not damage the Cecils' standing at court, and Richard's son, William, went on to become one of the most powerful men in England.

William Cecil was a brilliant politician who served as Elizabeth I's chief minister for over forty years. He was a key figure in the Protestant Reformation in England, and he also played a major role in the defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588. Cecil was created Baron Burghley in 1571, and he was made Earl of Exeter in 1605.

The Jacobean and Caroline Eras

The Cecils continued to play a major role in English politics during the reigns of James I and Charles I. William Cecil's son, Robert, was created Earl of Salisbury in 1605, and he served as James I's chief minister until his death in 1612. Robert's son, William, succeeded him as Earl of Salisbury, and he served as Charles I's chief minister until he was assassinated in 1643.

The Cecils were staunch supporters of the monarchy, and they opposed the Parliamentarians during the English Civil War. After the war, the Cecils were stripped of their titles and lands, but they were able to recover them after the Restoration in 1660.

The 18th and 19th Centuries

The Cecils continued to play a role in English politics in the 18th and 19th centuries. James Cecil, 7th Earl of Salisbury, was Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1885 to 1892 and again from 1895 to 1902. He was a strong supporter of imperialism, and he played a major role in the Boer War.

The Cecils' influence declined in the 20th century, but they remained a prominent family in British society. The family's seat, Burghley House, is now a popular tourist attraction.

Legacy

The Cecils were one of the most powerful and influential families in English history. They played a major role in shaping the country's political, religious, and cultural landscape. Their legacy is still felt today.

The Cecils: England's Second Family

4 out of 5