Sir Thomas Wentworth, First Earl of Strafford

Thomas Wentworth, First Earl of Strafford, was an English statesman and critical advisor to King Charles I (1600–1649). The artist John Hoskins was honored with a lifelong appointment as painter to Charles I. Wentworth believed in a benevolent and efficient English government ruled by the authority of a king, and as an advisor he was known for ruthless ambition.

He advocated for war with Scotland in response to a revolt, and continuously sought to consolidate power on behalf of the king’s sovereignty. Wentworth’s ambitions led to charges of treason, and he was ordered executed by the English Parliament in 1641.