Attainder of the Earl of Kildare Act 1536 facts for kids
| Act of Parliament | |
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| Long title | An Acte concernyng the Attaynder of Thomas Fittzgaralde and of his v. Uncles. |
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| Citation | 28 Hen. 8. c. 18 |
| Other legislation | |
| Repealed by | Statute Law (Repeals) Act 1977 |
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Status: Repealed
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The Attainder of the Earl of Kildare Act 1536 was a special law passed by the Parliament of England. It was created to declare Thomas FitzGerald, also known as the 10th Earl of Kildare, and his uncles guilty of acting against the king. This law allowed them to be punished for their actions.
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What Was the Attainder Act?
An Act of Attainder was a powerful legal tool used in England long ago. It was a special law passed by the Parliament. This law could declare a person guilty of a serious crime, like treason, without a normal court trial. Once passed, it meant the person lost their rights and property. They could also face severe consequences, including punishment. The Attainder of the Earl of Kildare Act 1536 was one such law. It targeted Thomas FitzGerald and his family.
Who Was Thomas FitzGerald?
Thomas FitzGerald was an important Irish nobleman. He was the 10th Earl of Kildare. His family, the FitzGeralds, were very powerful in Ireland. They often served as the King's representative there. Thomas was sometimes called "Silken Thomas." This nickname came from the fancy silk fringes on his helmet. He became the Earl of Kildare in 1534.
Why Was He Accused of Treason?
Thomas FitzGerald was accused of treason because he rebelled against King Henry VIII. Treason means acting against your country or its ruler. Thomas believed his father had been wrongly imprisoned in London. This made him very angry. He thought the King had treated his family unfairly.
The Silken Thomas Rebellion
In 1534, Thomas FitzGerald led a rebellion in Ireland. He gathered his supporters and openly declared his opposition to King Henry VIII. He gave up his role as the King's deputy in Ireland. His rebellion caused a lot of trouble for the English government. It was a serious challenge to the King's power. The rebellion lasted for some time. Eventually, English forces managed to put it down. Thomas FitzGerald was captured.
What Happened Because of the Act?
After his capture, Thomas FitzGerald was taken to London. The Parliament of England then passed the Attainder of the Earl of Kildare Act. This Act declared him and his uncles guilty of treason. It meant they would face severe punishment for their rebellion. The Act was a way for the King to show his power. It also served as a warning to anyone else who might think of rebelling.
See also
- Treason Act 1536
- High treason in the United Kingdom
