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The Cecils: England's Second Family

Brent Foster

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The Cecils were one of the most powerful and influential families in English history. They played a major role in the Tudor and Stuart periods, and their legacy continues to this day.

The Cecil family's origins can be traced back to the 14th century. The family's founder, David Cecil, was a Welshman who settled in England. His descendants became prominent in the legal profession, and by the 16th century, the Cecils were one of the most successful families in the country.

The Cecils: England's Second Family

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The Cecils' rise to power began with William Cecil, 1st Baron Burghley. Burghley was a close advisor to Queen Elizabeth I, and he played a key role in the establishment of the Protestant Reformation in England. Burghley's son, Robert Cecil, 1st Earl of Salisbury, continued his father's work, and he was one of the most powerful men in England during the reign of James I.

The Cecils continued to play a major role in English politics throughout the 17th and 18th centuries. They held high office in the government, and they were involved in some of the most important events in English history. The Cecil family's influence declined in the 19th century, but they remain one of the most prominent families in England today.

The Cecils and the Tudor Dynasty

Burghley was a brilliant politician and administrator. He was also a devout Protestant, and he was committed to reforming the English Church. Burghley's influence over Elizabeth was considerable, and he was one of the most powerful men in England during her reign.

Burghley's son, Robert Cecil, 1st Earl of Salisbury, continued his father's work. Salisbury was a skilled diplomat and politician, and he was one of the most powerful men in England during the reign of James I.

The Cecils were instrumental in the success of the Tudor dynasty. They helped to establish the Protestant Reformation in England, and they played a key role in the defeat of the Spanish Armada.

The Cecils and the Stuart Dynasty

One of the most prominent Cecils of the Stuart period was William Cecil, 2nd Earl of Salisbury. Salisbury was a close advisor to King James I, and he was one of the most powerful men in England during his reign.

Salisbury played a key role in the Gunpowder Plot, a plot to assassinate King James I and blow up the Houses of Parliament. Salisbury was responsible for uncovering the plot, and he was instrumental in the arrest and execution of the plotters.

The Cecils Today

The Cecil family's influence declined in the 19th century, but they remain one of the most prominent families in England today. The family's members have held high office in government, the military, and the Church of England.

The Cecils are also well-known for their philanthropy. The family's charitable foundation, the Cecil Charitable Trust, supports a wide range of causes, including education, healthcare, and the arts.

The Cecil family is a remarkable example of a family that has played a major role in English history for over 500 years. The family's legacy is one of power, influence, and philanthropy.