Henry Grey, 4th Earl of Kent facts for kids

Henry Grey, 4th Earl of Kent (born around 1495 – died 24 September 1562) was an important English nobleman. He held the title of Earl of Kent from 1524 until his death. An Earl was a high-ranking noble, similar to a count in other countries. Henry Grey faced challenges during his time as Earl, especially concerning his family's wealth.

Early Life and Family Connections

Henry Grey was born around 1495. His father was George Grey, 2nd Earl of Kent. His mother was Catherine Herbert, who was George Grey's second wife. Henry's grandparents on his mother's side were William Herbert, 1st Earl of Pembroke and Anne Devereux.

Henry also had an older half-brother named Richard Grey, 3rd Earl of Kent. Richard was the son of their father's first marriage to Anne Woodville. Anne Woodville was the daughter of Richard Woodville, 1st Earl Rivers.

Becoming the Earl of Kent

When Henry's father, George Grey, passed away, his half-brother Richard became the 3rd Earl of Kent. However, Richard faced serious financial problems. He ended up owing a lot of money. Because of these debts, Richard had to sell much of the family's land and property. A large part of this property was bought by the King, Henry VII of England.

When Richard Grey died without having any children, Henry inherited the title of Earl of Kent. He also inherited what little property was left. Henry tried to get back the lands that Richard had sold, but he wasn't very successful. Because of the family's financial difficulties, Henry lived a more modest life. He was known as a gentleman, and he never officially used the title of Earl in his daily life.

Marriage and Children

Henry Grey married Anne Blennerhassett. Her parents were John Blennerhassett and Jane Higham. Henry and Anne had two children together:

• Henry Grey (born 1520 – died 1545). He married Margaret St. John. They had three sons who would later become Earls of Kent:
  • Reginald Grey, 5th Earl of Kent
  • Henry Grey, 6th Earl of Kent
  • Charles Grey, 7th Earl of Kent
• Katherine Grey. She is believed to have married twice. Her husbands were from the Slayton and Spencer families. It is not clear if she had any children.