Hampden, John. An English patriot and parliamentary leader. Born in London, 1594. During the 22 years he held a seat in the House of Commons, Hampden identified himself as an advocate of public opinion and champion of popular rights, when the latter were encroached upon by Charles I and his government. Hampden suffered imprisonment for his refusal to pay the obnoxious ship money; was one of the framers of the Grand Remonstrance; and also one of the five members illegally committed to prison by order of the king. Hampden was killed in the fight of Chalgrove Field, 1643.

---