1B

Nobility

The higher-ranking aristocratic class in England, including Dukes, Earls, and Barons, who held vast land possessions and played crucial roles in government and the Royal Court.

Gentry

Country gentlemen, knights, and yeomen who held smaller land holdings, were prosperous through rents, and often served as Members of Parliament in the House of Commons.

Professional Classes

Merchants, bankers, doctors, lawyers, city officials, and artisans who gained political influence due to talent, hard work, and the economic growth of cities.

Clergy

Members of the Church who, although distinct from politics, held significant roles in secular government, with prominent Bishops sitting in the House of Lords and some priests assisting in local governance.

What percentage of the population were members of the Political Nation

Of the 4 million people living in England at the beginning of the 17th century, only around 0.05% of the adult male population were part of the Political Nation.

Local administration

In the boroughs and counties there were judges, JPs (Justices of the Peace), sheriffs or royal officials