Henry Unton facts for kids
Sir Henry Unton (born around 1557 – died March 23, 1596) was an important English diplomat during the Elizabethan era, the time when Queen Elizabeth I ruled England. He was known for his work representing England in other countries.
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Sir Henry Unton's Early Life
Henry Unton was born in a place called Wychwood. He was the second son of Sir Edward Unton, who lived at Wadley House near Faringdon. His mother, Lady Anne Seymour, came from a very important family. Her father was the Duke of Somerset, who was a powerful leader when King Edward VI was young.
Henry Unton studied at Oriel College, Oxford, which is a famous university. After his studies, he became a member of parliament for New Woodstock in 1584. This meant he was chosen to represent his area in the English government.
Military Service and Knighthood
Sir Henry Unton also had a military career. He joined the English forces fighting in the Netherlands in 1585 and 1586. He was even present at a battle called the skirmish of Zutphen. In 1586, he was made a knight by Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester, a close friend of Queen Elizabeth I. This gave him the title "Sir."
Sir Henry Unton as an Ambassador
In 1591, Sir Henry Unton was chosen to be an ambassador to King Henry IV of France. An ambassador is like a special representative who works to keep good relationships between countries. He became very good friends with the French king. He even went with King Henry IV on a military trip in Normandy.
Sir Henry Unton returned to England in June 1592. He was elected to parliament again in 1593, this time representing Berkshire.
Final Mission and Death
Later in 1593, Queen Elizabeth I sent him back to France as an ambassador once more. Sadly, Sir Henry Unton died while he was in France. He passed away in a French military camp at La Fère on March 23, 1596. After his death, a collection of Latin poems was published in his memory. His chaplain, Robert Wright, who later became a bishop, helped to edit this book.
Sir Henry Unton's body was brought back to England. He was buried at All Saints' Church in Faringdon.
The Unique Unton Portrait
After Sir Henry Unton died, his wife, Dame Dorothy Unton, asked an artist to paint a very special portrait of him. This painting is not just a picture of how he looked. It also tells the story of his life!
The painting shows ten important events from his life. It starts with his birth and ends with his impressive funeral procession. This unique artwork is now kept at the National Portrait Gallery in London. Dame Dorothy later married Sir George Shirley.
Images for kids
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Sir Henry Unton, 1586
