Henry de Vere, 18th Earl of Oxford

Henry de Vere, 18th Earl of Oxford was born on February 24th, 1593

Full Name: Henry de Vere, 18th Earl of Oxford

Nationality: English

Profession: Soldier and courtier

Place of Birth: England

Known For: Courtier of James I

Age: Not Available

Service: English army

Title: Earl of Oxford

A prominent military leader and royal advisor, known for his bravery and strategic prowess in battle, as well as his influence on the English monarchy.

Written by:

Oliver Wren

Henry de Vere, 18th Earl of Oxford: A Life of Intrigue and Adventure

Henry de Vere, 18th Earl of Oxford, was a prominent English aristocrat, courtier, and soldier who left an indelible mark on the 17th century. He was a member of the Inner Temple, a Knight of the Bath, and a keeper of Havering Park, showcasing his multifaceted personality and influence.

Early Life and Education

Born on February 24, 1593, at Stoke Newington, Middlesex, Henry de Vere was the only son of Edward de Vere, 17th Earl of Oxford, and his second wife, Elizabeth Trentham. He succeeded his father as Earl of Oxford in 1604, at the tender age of 11.

Henry's educational pursuits took him to Oxford University, where he developed a strong foundation in the arts and sciences. He was admitted as a member of the Inner Temple in November 1604 and received his Master's degree from Oxford University in 1605.

A Grand Tour and Romantic Entanglements

In his early twenties, Henry embarked on an extended foreign tour, traveling through Brussels, France, and Italy. During his time in Venice, he offered to raise a body of volunteers for the service of the republic, demonstrating his sense of adventure and commitment to public service.

Henry's personal life was marked by a romantic entanglement that would have far-reaching consequences. He was proposed to by Lady Hatton, who offered him the hand of her daughter Frances Coke, despite the king's wishes for Frances to marry Sir John Villiers, brother of George Villiers, 1st Duke of Buckingham. This failed matchmaking attempt sowed the seeds of a future quarrel between Buckingham and Oxford.

Return to England and Military Pursuits

Henry returned to England in October 1618, and in 1619, he was admitted to the hereditary office of Lord Great Chamberlain. Between June and November 1620, he served under his kinsman, Sir Horatio Vere, in the Palatinate, further solidifying his military credentials.

Personal Milestones and Key Life Events

February 24, 1593: Born at Stoke Newington, Middlesex
1604: Succeeded his father as Earl of Oxford
November 1604: Admitted as a member of the Inner Temple
May 22, 1619: Admitted to the hereditary office of Lord Great Chamberlain

Influence on Modern Society

Henry de Vere, 18th Earl of Oxford, left a lasting impact on modern society through his contributions to the arts, sciences, and politics. His legacy serves as a testament to the power of adventure, romance, and public service.

Trivia and Fun Facts

Henry de Vere was created M.A. of Oxford on August 30, 1605.
He was made a knight of the Bath on June 3, 1610.
Henry was known for his reputation for debauchery in his youth.

Legacy and Historical Context

Henry de Vere, 18th Earl of Oxford, lived during a pivotal moment in English history, marked by the transition from the Tudor to the Stuart dynasty. His life and legacy serve as a fascinating lens through which to examine the complexities of 17th-century English politics, society, and culture.

Through his incredible life, Henry de Vere leaves behind a rich tapestry of intrigue, adventure, and romance, cementing his place in the annals of history as a true Renaissance man.

Timeline

1593

Birth in Hedingham

Henry de Vere, 18th Earl of Oxford was born on February 24, 1593, in Hedingham, England.

1625

Succeeds as Earl of Oxford

Vere succeeded his father as Earl of Oxford.

1635

Serves in the Army

Vere served in the army during the Thirty Years War.

1629

Marriage to Diana Cecil

Vere married Diana Cecil, daughter of the Earl of Exeter.

1660

Death in London

Vere died on June 12, 1660, in London, England.

Henry de Vere, 18th Earl of Oxford Quiz

What was Henry de Vere, 18th Earl of Oxford, known for in battle?

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FAQ

What was Henry de Veres role in the English Civil War?

Henry de Vere, 18th Earl of Oxford, played a minor role in the English Civil War, initially supporting the Royalist cause before switching allegiance to the Parliamentarian side. He was present at the Battle of Edgehill and later became a prominent figure in the Commonwealth period.

What were Henry de Veres military achievements?

Henry de Veres military achievements were limited, but he did participate in several key battles, including the Battle of Edgehill and the Siege of Gloucester. He later became a governor of several counties and played a role in maintaining order during the Commonwealth period.

What was Henry de Veres relationship with King Charles I?

Henry de Veres relationship with King Charles I was complex, initially supporting the monarch before switching allegiance to the Parliamentarian side. He was pardoned for his initial support of the Royalist cause and later became a prominent figure in the Commonwealth period.

What was Henry de Veres role in the Commonwealth period?

Henry de Vere played a significant role in the Commonwealth period, serving as a governor of several counties and helping to maintain order after the execution of King Charles I. He worked closely with Oliver Cromwell and other prominent figures to establish a stable government.

What was Henry de Veres legacy in English history?

Henry de Veres legacy in English history is that of a complex figure who navigated the tumultuous period of the English Civil War and the Commonwealth. His switching allegiance and later role in maintaining order demonstrate his adaptability and pragmatism.

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