A compelling and fascinating book for anyone interested in British social history and for those who want to trace their gentlemen ancestors.
These days we use the term ‘gentleman’ to describe a man of any social class who possesses positive attributes, such as bravery, politeness and honour. However, between the 16th and 19th centuries, ‘gentlemen’ referred to the gentry. They stood just below nobility in wealth and political power. They owned country estates.
Stuart Raymond examines the role these men played in society, placing the English and Welsh landed gentry in their historical context. The book covers the sources available and various techniques that can be used to trace gentlemen. Chapters include heraldry and pedigree collections, inheritance records, and legal and education records.
Author: Stuart Raymond
Published: 2012