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William Staley (Stayley)

(died 1678), Goldsmith, banker and victim of the Popish Plot

Sitter in 1 portrait
Staley was a Catholic goldsmith and banker accused of speaking malicious and treasonable words against King Charles II. His accusers were 'loose and vicious gentleman' who offered to drop the charge if Staley paid £200 but he refused. In the heated anti-Catholic atmosphere of 1678, he was found guilty of treason and sentenced to be hanged, drawn and quartered. He was the first victim of the Popish Plot.

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'The manner how Mr. William Staley was drawne on a sledge to Execution November 27th 1678' (William Staley (Stayley))

by William Faithorne
line engraving, circa 1678-1679
NPG D23009

Groups

Bankers and Financiers

Place

London

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William Staley (Stayley)

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