Humphrey, 2nd Earl of Buckingham facts for kids

Humphrey, 2nd Earl of Buckingham (born 1381 – died September 2, 1399) was an English nobleman. He was a member of the House of Lords, which is a part of England's Parliament.

Who Was Humphrey?

Humphrey was an important person in England during his time. He held the title of Earl of Buckingham. This meant he was a high-ranking noble.

Early Life and Family

Humphrey was born in 1381. His father was Thomas of Woodstock. Thomas was a very important person himself. He was the youngest son of King Edward III. This made Thomas an uncle to King Richard II. So, Humphrey had strong connections to the royal family.

Humphrey also held the role of Lord High Constable of England. This was a powerful position. The Lord High Constable was in charge of the army and keeping order.

Life as a Royal Ward

After his father, Thomas of Woodstock, passed away, Humphrey became a "ward of the crown." This meant the king became his guardian. He was looked after by the royal family.

Humphrey was a ward along with Henry of Monmouth. Henry later became King Henry V. Henry of Monmouth was the son of Henry Bolingbroke. Henry Bolingbroke later became King Henry IV.

In 1398, King Richard II took both Humphrey and Henry of Monmouth to Ireland. They were kept safe there. This happened when King Richard II returned to England to deal with Henry Bolingbroke.

His Final Journey

Later, King Richard II was no longer king. Henry Bolingbroke became the new king. He ordered Humphrey and Henry of Monmouth to be released. He wanted them to come home to England.

Sadly, Humphrey became ill on his journey home. He passed away on September 2, 1399. His mother, Eleanor de Bohun, passed away shortly after. People believed she died from sadness after losing her son.