George Stanley, 9th Baron Strange facts for kids

Sir George Stanley (born around 1460, died 1503) was an important English nobleman and soldier. He was the son of Thomas Stanley, who later became the first Earl of Derby. George Stanley was also the stepbrother of King Henry VII. He held many important jobs in the government and was known for his military skills.

Life of George Stanley

Arms of Sir George Stanley, 9th Baron Strange, of Knockin, KG

George Stanley was born around 1460 in Knowsley, England. His father was Thomas Stanley. His mother was Eleanor, who was the sister of a powerful nobleman named Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick.

Later, his father married Lady Margaret Beaufort. She was the mother of Henry Tudor, who would become King Henry VII. This made George Stanley the king's stepbrother.

Early Career and Knighthood

In 1475, King Edward IV made George Stanley a knight. This was a special honor given to brave soldiers. He became a member of the Order of the Bath, a group of important knights.

Important Roles and Battles

George Stanley held several important positions. In 1485, he became the Constable (or commander) of both Pontefract Castle and Knaresborough Castle.

He was present at the famous Battle of Bosworth Field in 1485. This battle was very important because it ended the Wars of the Roses. George Stanley was held hostage by King Richard III during the battle. This was to try and make sure his father and uncle would support King Richard.

After the battle, in 1486, he became Constable of Wicklow Castle. He also became the Chief Justice of the Duchy of Lancaster. This meant he was a top judge for a large area of land owned by the King.

In 1487, he fought in the Battle of Stoke Field. This battle helped King Henry VII secure his throne. In the same year, George Stanley received another high honor. He was made a knight of the Order of the Garter. He also became a privy counsellor, which meant he advised the King directly.

Family Life

In 1482, George Stanley married Joan le Strange, 9th Baroness Strange (born around 1460, died 1514). She was the daughter of John le Strange, 8th Baron Strange. Because of his marriage to Joan, George became the 9th Baron Strange himself. This meant he could attend Parliament in this role.

George and Joan had several children:

• John Stanley (died 1503)
• Thomas Stanley, 2nd Earl of Derby (1485–1521)
• James Stanley (1486–1562), who was a knight. His family line, known as the 'Stanleys of Bickerstaffe', later led to the 11th Earl of Derby and all the earls after him.
• George Stanley
• Jane Stanley, who married Sir Robert Sheffield. They had a son named Edmund Sheffield, 1st Baron Sheffield.
• Elizabeth Stanley
• Margaret Stanley

Death

George Stanley passed away in London on December 4 or 5, 1503. He was buried in the church of St James Garlickhythe in London.