John Cartwright

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John Cartwright (1740-1824) was an influential English naval officer and political reformer, often referred to as the "Father of Reform"[1][2]. Born on September 17, 1740, in Marnham, Nottinghamshire, he was the third son of William Cartwright and Anne Cartwright[1][2]. He was educated at Newark-on-Trent grammar school and Heath Academy in Yorkshire[1][2].

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Early Life and Naval Career

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Cartwright joined the Royal Navy in 1758 and served during the Seven Years' War[1][2]. He participated in significant naval battles, including the capture of Cherbourg and the Battle of Quiberon Bay[1][2]. Due to ill health, he retired from active service in 1771[1][2].

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Political Reform and Activism

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Cartwright became a prominent advocate for parliamentary reform and various constitutional changes[1][2]. He supported the American colonists during the American War of Independence and published his first plea on their behalf in 1774[1][2]. His work, "Take Your Choice," published in 1776, argued for universal suffrage, annual parliaments, and the secret ballot[1][2].

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In 1780, Cartwright founded the Society for Constitutional Information, which aimed to educate the public about political reform[1][2]. He was also involved in the formation of the more famous Corresponding Society[1][2].

 

Throughout his life, Cartwright continued to campaign for political reform, and his ideas influenced the Chartist movement in the 19th century[1][2].

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Impact on Newark

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John Cartwright's impact on Newark is primarily through his early education and his family's influence in the region[1][2]. His advocacy for political reform and his writings would have resonated with the progressive elements in Newark, contributing to the broader movement for political and social change[1][2]. Cartwright's legacy as a reformer is remembered in Newark and beyond, and his ideas continue to be celebrated for their contribution to the development of democratic principles[1][2].

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References

[1] John Cartwright (political reformer) - Wikipedia

[2] John Cartwright | Abolitionist, Reformist, Activist | Britannica