Charles Howard, 9th Earl of Suffolk facts for kids
Charles Howard, 9th Earl of Suffolk (born 1685 – died 28 September 1733) was an important English nobleman and politician. From 1691 until 1731, he was known as Hon. Charles Howard. He held a special title called "Earl of Suffolk," which was passed down in his family.
Charles Howard was the third son of Henry Howard, 5th Earl of Suffolk. He began his military career in 1703, becoming a captain in a group of soldiers called Echlin's Regiment of Dragoons. In the same year, he also served as a Member of Parliament (MP) for a short time. This meant he was a representative for the area of Carlow in the Irish House of Commons, which was like a government assembly in Ireland.
Family Life
On March 2, 1706, Charles Howard married Henrietta. Henrietta's father was Sir Henry Hobart, 4th Baronet. After her father passed away, Henrietta was raised by the Suffolk family. Charles and Henrietta had one son together, named Henry, who was born in 1710.
Seeking Royal Favor
Charles and Henrietta faced financial difficulties. To improve their situation, they traveled to Hanover. Their goal was to gain the support of Prince-Elector George. He was expected to become the next King of England.
They were successful in their efforts. When George became King George I in 1714, both Charles and Henrietta received special jobs at the royal court. Charles became a Groom of the Bedchamber for the King. Henrietta became a Woman of the Bedchamber for Caroline, Princess of Wales.
Later Appointments
Charles Howard received other important positions during his life. In 1718, he was appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant of Essex. This was a role that helped support the main representative of the King in that area. The following year, in 1719, he also joined the Coldstream Guards. He was given the rank of captain and lieutenant-colonel in this famous military group.
After King George I passed away in 1727, Charles was not given his role as Groom of the Bedchamber again. He and Henrietta had formally separated shortly before this time.
Becoming Earl of Suffolk
In 1731, Charles Howard's brother, Edward, passed away. This meant that Charles inherited the title of Earl of Suffolk. He became the 9th Earl of Suffolk. Because Henrietta was now married to an Earl, she officially became a Countess. She was then appointed as Mistress of the Robes, a very important position in the royal household.
Charles Howard, 9th Earl of Suffolk, passed away in 1733. His son, Henry, then became the next Earl of Suffolk.
| Parliament of Ireland | ||
|---|---|---|
| Preceded by Edmond Jones Robert Curtis |
Member of Parliament for Carlow 1703 |
Succeeded by Richard Wolseley Walter Weldon |
| Peerage of England | ||
| Preceded by Edward Howard |
Earl of Suffolk 1731–1733 |
Succeeded by Henry Howard |
