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Why was Samuel Pepys imprisoned in the Tower of London in 1679?
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Samuel Pepys
Samuel Pepys, oil painting by John Hayls, 1666; in the National Portrait Gallery, London.
In 1679, Samuel Pepys was imprisoned in the Tower of London due to the political machinations of his adversaries, who sought to undermine his influence and his loyalty to the Duke of York.1
His imprisonment was driven by two primary, unjust accusations:
- Treason: His enemies, supported by Exclusionists in Parliament, brought an absurd charge of treason against him. This was instigated by John Scott, a blackmailer whom Pepys had previously attempted to have arrested for his suspicious activities.1
- Popery: He faced a minor and equally unfounded charge of "popery" (Catholicism), which was brought against him by a disgruntled former butler whom Pepys had dismissed for misconduct.1
These charges were part of a broader effort by political opponents, such as Lord Shaftesbury, to strike at the Catholic succession. Pepys was ultimately released after Charles II dissolved Parliament, allowing Pepys the time to dismantle the reputation of his accusers.1