John Grey, 1st Earl of Tankerville facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
John Grey
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| Earl of Tankerville Lord of Powys, jure uxoris |
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Arms of Sir John Grey, 1st Earl of Tankerville, KG
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| Born | after 1384 |
| Died | 22 March 1421 |
| Spouse(s) | Joan de Cherleton |
| Issue | Henry Grey, 2nd Earl of Tankerville |
| Father | Sir Thomas Grey |
| Mother | Joan Mowbray |
John Grey, 1st Earl of Tankerville, was an important English knight and nobleman. He lived in the late 1300s and early 1400s. John Grey was known for fighting bravely in the Hundred Years' War. This was a long conflict between England and France. He served King Henry V and was given special honors for his courage. He was also a Knight of the Garter, a very high award.
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Who Was John Grey?
John Grey was the second son of Sir Thomas Grey. His mother was Joan Mowbray. The Grey family was well-known in England. They came from places like Berwick and Chillingham Castle.
The Grey Family History
The Grey family had a long history of serving the English king. John Grey's grandfather, also named Sir Thomas Grey, was a brave knight. He fought in many battles near the Scottish border. He even wrote a famous history book called Scalacronica.
John Grey also had an older brother, Sir Thomas Grey. This brother was involved in a plot against King Henry V. Because of this, he was executed in 1415.
Fighting in the Hundred Years' War
John Grey was a key figure in the Hundred Years' War. This was a long series of battles between England and France. King Henry V gave John Grey special payments for his service.
In 1415, John Grey fought bravely at the famous Battle of Agincourt. This was a major victory for England. After this, King Henry V launched another invasion of Normandy, France.
Becoming a Knight and Earl
John Grey showed great courage during the siege of Caen in 1417. Because of his bravery, King Henry V made him a Knight of the Garter. This was one of the highest honors a knight could receive. The king also gave him land in Normandy.
In 1419, John Grey was granted the area of Tancarville in Normandy. This made him the Earl of Tankerville. He continued to serve as a captain in various French towns. He became one of the most important landowners in Normandy.
A Tragic End
Sadly, John Grey's life ended in battle. On March 22, 1421, he was fighting near the Chateau de Beaufort at the Battle of Baugé. He and many other English nobles were killed by a combined French and Scottish army. They had attacked without proper planning or support.
Family Life and Legacy
In 1418, John Grey married Joan de Cherleton. She was the 6th Lord of Powys. Through his marriage, John Grey gained the title of Lord Powys and its lands. This included part of Powis Castle.
John and Joan had one son:
- Henry Grey, 2nd Earl of Tankerville (born around 1418 or 1419). Henry was knighted in 1426. He married Antigone, who was the daughter of Humphrey, Duke of Gloucester.
As the French kings regained control of their lands, Henry Grey lost his family's lands and wealth in Tancarville. He died around 1450, and the title of Earl of Tankerville ended with him.
