James Hay, 1st Earl of Carlisle facts for kids
James Hay, the 1st Earl of Carlisle (born around 1580, died March 1636), was an important British nobleman. He was a trusted friend and advisor to King James VI of Scotland, who later became King James I of England. He was known for his lavish lifestyle and his work as a diplomat.
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Life as a Royal Favorite
James Hay was born in Scotland. He came from a well-connected family. King James VI of Scotland liked him very much. When King James also became King James I of England in 1603, he brought James Hay to England. Hay quickly became one of the King's favorite people at court.
The King gave James Hay many gifts and helped him with his money. In 1606, he was made a baron for life. This was a special title that gave him high rank. In 1607, he married Honora Denny. She was the only daughter of a rich lord. Their wedding was a big event, celebrated with a special play called Lord Hay's Masque.
James Hay continued to gain more honors. In 1610, he became a Knight of the Bath. This was a special award given by the King. In 1615, he was made Lord Hay of Sawley. This title allowed him to join the House of Lords, which is part of the English Parliament.
Honora, Lady Hay, was also a favorite of Queen Anne of Denmark. Sadly, Honora died in 1614. After her death, James Hay continued his important work for the King.
Diplomatic Missions and New Titles
In 1616, James Hay was sent to France. His job was to help arrange a marriage between Princess Christina of France and Prince Charles of England. This was a very important diplomatic task. When he returned, he became a Privy Councillor. This meant he was a close advisor to the King.
In 1617, he hosted a very expensive play by Ben Jonson. It was for the French ambassador. Later that year, he married Lady Lucy Percy. She was the daughter of a famous nobleman.
In 1618, James Hay received a new title: Viscount Doncaster. In 1619, he went to Germany. He supported a king known as the "Winter King" during the start of the Thirty Years' War. He wanted King James to help in the war.
He also went to France in 1621 and 1622. His goal was to make peace for the Huguenots. These were French Protestants who faced challenges. He was not successful in this mission. In September 1622, he was given his highest title: Earl of Carlisle.
Later Life and Legacy
In 1624, he helped arrange the marriage of Prince Charles with Henrietta Maria of France. He was also made a Knight of the Garter. This is one of the most important awards in England.
After Charles became King Charles I, Carlisle continued to serve him. He was a gentleman of the bedchamber. He advised the King on wars and peace. He suggested making peace with Spain. He also wanted to fight France more strongly. However, his advice was not always followed.
Carlisle was known for spending a lot of money. He loved to host fancy parties and dinners. People talked about how extravagant he was. One dinner for a French ambassador cost a huge amount of money. It included expensive sweets and rare ingredients.
He died in March 1636. People remembered him as a very fine gentleman and a skilled courtier. Even though he received a lot of money from the King, he spent it all. He did not leave much land or property behind.
Colonial Interests
James Hay was also interested in the new colonies. By 1612, he was a director of the Virginia Company. This company helped set up the first English colonies in North America. He was also involved in the New England plantation.
Carlisle had a special interest in the Caribbean islands. In 1627, King Charles I gave him a special grant. This grant gave him control over all the Caribbean Islands, including Barbados. This made him a "proprietary colony" owner. This meant he owned and governed the land. A merchant named Marmaduke Roydon helped him start a colony on Barbados in 1628.
Family Life
James Hay's first wife was Honora Denny. His second wife was Lucy Percy. She became known as Lucy Hay, Countess of Carlisle. She was involved in many political events later on.
James Hay had one son who lived, also named James. This son was from his first marriage. James the younger married Margaret Russell. However, he died in 1660 without having any children. When he died, the title of Earl of Carlisle in the Hay family came to an end.
Images for kids
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The coat of arms of Sir James Hay, 1st Earl of Carlisle, KG
