Henry Grey, 6th Earl of Kent facts for kids
Henry Grey, 6th Earl of Kent (born 1541 – died 31 January 1615) was an important English nobleman. He held the title of Earl of Kent and served the English Crown during a time of great change in history. He is especially remembered for his role as an official witness at a very famous historical event: the execution of Mary, Queen of Scots.
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Who Was Henry Grey?
Henry Grey was born in 1541. He was part of a very old and important family in England, the Grey family. His father was also named Henry Grey, and his grandfather was Henry Grey, 4th Earl of Kent.
Henry Grey had two brothers. His older brother was Reginald Grey, 5th Earl of Kent. When Reginald passed away, Henry became the 6th Earl of Kent. He also had a younger brother named Charles Grey, 7th Earl of Kent, who would later take over the title after Henry.
Important Roles and Public Service
As an Earl, Henry Grey had many responsibilities and served his country. From 1586 until his death, he held a significant position called Lord Lieutenant of Bedfordshire. A Lord Lieutenant was like a representative of the King or Queen in a specific county. Their job was to manage local affairs, especially related to the military and keeping peace.
Witnessing a Historic Event
One of the most notable events in Henry Grey's life happened in 1587. He was chosen to be one of the official witnesses at the execution of Mary, Queen of Scots. Mary was the former Queen of Scotland and a cousin of Queen Elizabeth I of England. Her execution was a very serious and important moment in English history. Henry Grey's presence as a witness showed his high standing and trust within the government of Queen Elizabeth I.
Family Life and Legacy
Henry Grey was married to Mary Cotton. Her parents were Sir George Cotton and Mary Onley. Henry and Mary did not have any children together. Because he had no direct heirs, when Henry Grey passed away on January 31, 1615, his title and responsibilities as the Earl of Kent were passed on to his younger brother, Charles.
Images for kids
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This drawing shows the execution of Mary, Queen of Scots in 1587. Henry Grey, 6th Earl of Kent (number 1) and George Talbot, 6th Earl of Shrewsbury (number 2) were official witnesses.
