William Thompson (1614–1681)

[1] He was born the youngest of the four sons of Robert Thompson of Cheshunt, Hertfordshire and educated at Merchant Taylors' School.

All four brothers, which included Maurice and George, became successful businessmen in London.

He rose to prominence in the East India Company as a major stockholder and Governor, becoming a London alderman and sheriff.

He served as a Member of Parliament for the City of London in 1659 and was knighted in The Hague by King Charles II in 1660.

The son, Samuel, also became a London alderman and was knighted by James II.