James Fiennes, 1st Baron Saye and Sele facts for kids
James Fiennes, 1st Baron Saye and Sele (born 1395, died 1450), was an important English soldier and politician. He was born in Herstmonceux, Sussex. He played a key role in English politics during a difficult time for the country.
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A Life in Service
James Fiennes was born in 1395. His father was Sir William Fiennes. James became a soldier and fought in the Hundred Years' War. This was a long conflict between England and France. He also held important local government jobs. He was the High Sheriff of Kent in 1436. Later, he served as High Sheriff of Surrey and High Sheriff of Sussex in 1438.
Important Government Roles
Fiennes held several very important positions for the King. From 1447 to 1450, he was the Constable of Dover Castle. He was also the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports. This role protected important coastal towns in England.
In 1449, he became the Lord High Treasurer of England. This meant he was in charge of the country's money. This was a challenging time for England's economy. The country faced money problems, sometimes called the Great Bullion Famine. There was also a period of economic difficulty known as the Great Slump.
Political Connections
James Fiennes was called to serve in Parliament from 1446 to 1449. He was given the title of Baron Saye and Sele in 1447. He was a strong supporter of William de la Pole, 1st Duke of Suffolk. Suffolk was a very powerful person behind King Henry VI.
Downfall and Tragic End
In 1450, the Duke of Suffolk lost his power and was killed. After this, James Fiennes was put in the Tower. His son-in-law, William Cromer, was also imprisoned.
King Henry VI later released Baron Saye. This was an attempt to calm down angry rebels. However, James Fiennes was taken to Guildhall for a quick trial. He was found guilty of treason. A large group of rebels, led by Jack Cade, then took him through London. He was killed by the mob in Cheapside on July 4, 1450. His son-in-law was also killed by the rebels on the same day.
Family and Legacy
James Fiennes was married twice. His first wife was Joan. They had two children:
- Elizabeth (died 1475). She married three times. Her first husband, William Cromer, was killed by Jack Cade's rebels like her father. Her second husband, Alexander Iden, actually captured Jack Cade.
- William (born around 1428). He became the 2nd Baron Saye and Sele. William was killed in 1471 during the Battle of Barnet.
James Fiennes later married Emmeline before 1441. She was the daughter of Sir William Cromer, who was twice the Lord Mayor of London.
James Fiennes is a character in the play Henry VI, Part 2 by William Shakespeare. The battle where his son William died is mentioned in the next play, Henry VI, Part 3.
