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William Shakespeare's father, John Shakespeare, moved to the idyllic town of Stratford-upon-Avon in the mid-sixteenth century, where he became a successful landowner, moneylender, wool and agricultural goods dealer, and glover. In 1557 he married Mary Arden . John Shakespeare lived during a time when the middle class grew and became wealthier and wealthier, thus allowing its members increasing freedoms, luxuries, and voice in the local government. He took advantage of the opportunities afforded him through this social growth and in 1557 became a member of the Stratford Council, an event which marked the beginning of an illustrious political career. By 1561 he was elected one of the town's fourteen burgesses, where he served as constable, one of two chamberlains, and alderman successively. In these positions he administered borough property and revenues. In 1567 he was made bailiff, the highest elected office in Stratford, and the equivalent of a modern day mayor. More... (Classic Notes; )

Websites about this author:

• Shakespeare's Life and Times
  http://www.allshakespeare.com/ (AllShakesapeare.com; )
  
  
• Surfing with the Bard by Amy Ulen
  To surf, or not to surf, that is the question --
  Whether 'tis nobler in the mind to grade
  The essays and homework of outrageous lessons,
  Or to take arms against a sea of students
  And by opposing them -- To Surf!
  http://www.ulen.com/shakespeare/