Algernon Sidney

Algernon Sidney (English: Algernon Sidney; January 15, 1623 - December 7, 1683), British politician and member of Parliament. A republican political theorist who participated in the trial of King Charles I of England but opposed his execution. Sidney opposed the divine right of kings, advocated limited government, and supported the people's overthrow of corrupt governments. He was convicted of treason and executed. But his thoughts had a profound influence on later generations. The founding father of the United States, Jefferson, and the American Declaration of Independence were also influenced by him.