John Mason (diplomat)

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John Mason
Born c. 1503
Abingdon, Berkshire, England
Died 20 April 1566
London, England
Nationality British
Other names Sir John Mason
Occupation Diplomat, spy, MP
Known for Chancellor of the University of Oxford

Sir John Mason (1503 – 20 April 1566) was an English diplomat and spy.

Mason was born in Abingdon in Berkshire (now Oxfordshire). He was educated at the school at the abbey in his native town, where his uncle was abbot. Later, he went to All Souls College, Oxford and was ordained a priest. He became Chancellor of Oxford University for the periods 1552-1556 and 1559-1564.

He worked for several Tudor monarchs collecting information from the Continent and as a diplomat. He was knighted by Edward VI and made Dean of Winchester.

John Mason School, a secondary school in Abingdon, is named after him.

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Academic offices
Preceded by
Richard Cox
Chancellor of the University of Oxford
Succeeded by
Reginald Pole
Preceded by
Earl of Arundel
Chancellor of the University of Oxford
Succeeded by
Earl of Leicester