Charles Rich, 4th Earl of Warwick facts for kids
Charles Rich, 4th Earl of Warwick (born around 1623 – died August 24, 1673) was an important English nobleman and politician. Before 1658, people called him The Honourable Charles Rich. He belonged to a noble family and played a part in the government of his time.
Early Life and Marriage
Charles Rich was the second son of Robert Rich, 2nd Earl of Warwick and Frances Hatton. When he was young, he was known for being handsome, charming, and cheerful.
He married Lady Mary Boyle. Mary was the daughter of Richard Boyle, 1st Earl of Cork. Charles and Mary fell in love when he helped care for her when she was sick.
Their marriage was based on love, which was unusual for the time. Mary's father wanted her to marry someone else. But Mary refused because she did not like the man her father chose. She bravely picked Charles instead.
Even though her father was upset at first, he truly loved Mary. He eventually agreed to the marriage and gave them a good dowry, which was money or property given to the groom by the bride's family.
Charles and Mary sometimes had disagreements. Mary was very strong-willed and determined. Charles often suffered from poor health, which sometimes made him bad-tempered.
Public Life
Charles Rich was also involved in politics. From 1645 to 1648, he represented the town of Sandwich in the English Parliament. This meant he helped make laws and decisions for the country.
He also held the important position of Custos Rotulorum of Essex. This role meant he was the chief justice of the peace for the county of Essex.
In 1658, Charles became the Earl of Warwick. He inherited this title after his older brother, Robert, passed away.
Later Life
Lord Warwick died in 1673 after a long illness. He was about 50 years old.
Charles and Mary had one son, who sadly died before his father and did not have any children. They also had a daughter named Elizabeth, who died when she was a baby.
Because Charles had no living children, his title passed to his cousin, Charles Rich, 2nd Earl of Holland.
Even with their disagreements, Charles left all his property to his wife, Mary, for her lifetime. This was not a common thing to do back then. Mary, the love of his life, passed away five years after him.
Images for kids
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Arms of the Rich family: a gold chevron and three gold crosses on a red shield
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Mary, Countess of Warwick
