Roger L'Estrange: A Controversial yet Influential Figure of 17th-Century England

#### Full Name and Common Aliases
Roger L'Estrange was a British writer, polemicist, and government propagandist. He is often referred to as Father Strangemane, a nickname that reflects his career as a clergyman and his involvement in the English Civil War.

#### Birth and Death Dates
L'Estrange was born on November 18, 1616, in London, England, and died on March 16, 1704.

#### Nationality and Profession(s)
L'Estrange was a British subject by birth and maintained multiple professions throughout his life: writer, clergyman (Church of England), polemicist, and government propagandist.

#### Early Life and Background
Roger L'Estrange came from a family with strong literary connections. His father, Thomas L'Estrange, was a playwright and actor. The younger L'Estrange's background likely influenced his interest in the arts and politics. He studied at St John's College, Oxford, where he developed his writing skills and began to explore theology.

#### Major Accomplishments
- Prolific Writer: L'Estrange wrote extensively on various subjects, including religion, politics, and literature. His works include pamphlets, books, and newspapers.
- Government Propagandist: He worked closely with the English monarchy during the Restoration period (1660–1688), producing propaganda that supported the royal cause.
- Clergyman: L'Estrange served as a clergyman in the Church of England. His positions included chaplain to King Charles II.

#### Notable Works or Actions
Some of his notable works include:

_The Observator_ (1681–1687), a daily newsletter known for its support of the English monarchy and criticism of Parliament.
_The Character of a Popish Parish-Priest_ (1679), a work that exemplified his anti-Catholic stance during the late 17th century in England.

#### Impact and Legacy
L'Estrange's influence on literature and politics is multifaceted:

Literary Contributions: His writings, particularly _The Observator_, demonstrate his mastery of propaganda techniques. These works offer insight into the literary and political climate of 17th-century England.
Polarizing Figure: L'Estrange's career was marked by controversy due to his strong anti-Catholic views and support for absolute monarchy.

#### Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Roger L'Estrange is often cited for his:

Propaganda Techniques: His experience in producing influential propaganda during the Restoration period has made him a significant figure in discussions on political communication.
Literary Legacy: The breadth and diversity of his writings contribute to his lasting impact on literature.

L'Estrange's complex career, marked by both controversy and literary achievement, continues to attract interest from scholars and historians.