Henry Percy, 2nd Baron Percy facts for kids
Henry Percy (born February 6, 1301 – died February 26, 1352) was an important English nobleman. He held the title of Baron Percy of Alnwick. His father was Henry de Percy, 1st Baron Percy, and his mother was Eleanor Fitzalan. Eleanor was the daughter of Sir Richard FitzAlan, 8th Earl of Arundel.
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Early Life and Rise to Power
Henry was only thirteen years old when his father passed away. Because he was so young, his noble title and lands, known as a barony, were looked after by a man named John de Felton. This was a common practice for young heirs in those times.
In 1316, when Henry was about 15, King Edward II of England gave him control over lands in Northumberland. These lands had belonged to Patrick IV, Earl of March. This showed that Henry was starting to gain influence.
By 1322, Henry was given important roles. He became the governor of Pickering Castle and also of the town and castle of Scarborough. Later that year, he was made a knight in York, a special honor given by the king.
Opposing the King's Advisors
During this time, King Edward II had powerful but unpopular advisors called the Despensers. Many other noblemen, including Henry Percy, disagreed with their influence over the king. Henry joined with these barons to challenge the Despensers' power.
Working for Peace
After a difficult war with Scotland, Henry Percy was chosen for a very important job. Along with another nobleman named William Zouche, he was given the task of negotiating a peace agreement. This agreement was called the Treaty of Edinburgh–Northampton.
However, this treaty was not popular with many English people. The peace it brought between England and Scotland only lasted for about five years.
Service to King Edward III
In 1327, a new king, Edward III, came to the throne. Henry Percy was appointed to King Edward III's special council, which advised the king. This showed how much the new king trusted him.
King Edward III also gave Henry more lands and castles. He received the manor and castle of Skipton. In 1328, he was granted the castle and barony of Warkworth.
Battles and Military Roles
Henry Percy was a skilled military leader. He took part in several important sieges and battles against the Scots. These included the Siege of Dunbar and the Siege of Berwick. He also fought in the Battle of Halidon Hill. After these victories, he was made the constable of Berwick-upon-Tweed, meaning he was in charge of defending that important border town.
In 1346, Henry Percy played a key role in the Battle of Neville's Cross. He commanded the right side of the English army during this major battle.
Family Life
Henry Percy married a woman named Idonia. She was the daughter of Robert Clifford, 1st Baron Clifford. Together, Henry and Idonia had several children:
- Henry, who was born around 1321. He later became the 3rd Baron Percy of Alnwick after his father.
- Thomas Percy, Bishop of Norwich, who became an important church leader.
- Roger.
- Maud Percy, who married John Neville, 3rd Baron Neville.
- Eleanor Percy, who married John FitzWalter, 2nd Baron FitzWalter.
- Isabel Percy, who married Sir William Aton. They had three daughters: Anastasia, Catherine, and Elizabeth.
- Margaret, who married Sir Robert de Umfraville in 1340. Later, she married William Ferrers, 3rd Baron Ferrers of Groby. Margaret passed away in 1375.
