James Boleyn facts for kids

Sir James Boleyn (died 1561) was an important person who worked for King Henry VIII of England. He was a courtier, which means he was a trusted helper and friend to the king and his family. James Boleyn was also the head of the household for his niece, Anne Boleyn. Anne Boleyn became the second wife of King Henry VIII. This made Sir James Boleyn the great-uncle of Elizabeth I, who later became a famous queen of England. James was the son of Sir William Boleyn and Margaret Butler. His older brother was Thomas Boleyn, 1st Earl of Wiltshire.

Sir James Boleyn's Life at Court

Sir James Boleyn became a knight in 1520. We don't know exactly why he was knighted. In 1529, he was chosen to represent Norfolk in the Parliament. This was during a time of big changes in England, known as the Reformation.

By 1533, he held a special title called "Knight of the Body." This was an honorary position. It meant he was close to the king but did not have to be at court all the time.

Beliefs and Marriage

Sir James Boleyn was married to Elizabeth Wood. He was known to share similar religious ideas as his niece, Anne Boleyn. These were ideas that supported the Reformation. He even discussed religious writings with King Henry VIII and a famous church leader named Hugh Latimer.

Sir James Boleyn passed away in 1561.