ots, (1649-1705), an English impostor. Although the son of a Baptist minister, and himself educated for that sacred office, he appears to have been a man of vile character. He was turned out of a chaplaincy in the Parliamentary army and was expelled from various schools, including Cambridge University, without a degree. Among his earlier exploits was the circulation of stories against a schoolmaster of his parish, resulting in his own expulsion. About 1676 the Catholics, who had held high hopes of something being done for their religion by Charles II, were very generally suspected of intriguing to secure the removal of the dissolute Episcopal Charles and the elevation to the throne of his austere Catholic brother, the Duke of York, afterward known as James II. Oates came forward with apparent proof of a Catholic conspiracy. His testimony was believed by the courts. Thirty-five more or less innocent persons were executed, and Oates was granted a pension. Two years later, after excitement had subsided, suspicions of Oates' good faith arose. He was arrested, tried for perjury, and found guilty. He was condemned to pay a fine, to stand in the pillory, and to endure a flogging which was expected to end his life. His constitution was so hardy, however, that he survived the flogging. On the accession of William and Mary he was awarded a second pension and raised his head again. He married a rich widow and even reentered the Baptist ministry. He was soon expelled by that denomination, however, and ended his days in obscurity. The historian Macaulay sets out in scathing terms the character of this abandoned man. See GUNPOWDER PLOT.