John Holland, 2nd Duke of Exeter facts for kids
John Holland, 2nd Duke of Exeter, was an important English nobleman and military leader. He lived from 1395 to 1447. John played a big part in the Hundred Years' War, a long conflict between England and France. He was a cousin to King Henry V of England and King Henry VI of England. John worked hard to serve the king and became a trusted commander on land and at sea.
Quick facts for kids
John Holland
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| Duke of Exeter Earl of Huntingdon and Ivry |
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John Holland's effigy, Chapel of St. Peter ad Vincula, Tower of London
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| Born | 29 March 1395 Dartington, Devonshire, England |
| Died | 5 August 1447 (aged 52) Stepney, Middlesex, England |
| Buried | St Katharine's by the Tower, London |
| Family | Holland |
| Spouses | Lady Anne Stafford Beatrice of Portugal Lady Anne Montacute |
| Issue more... |
Henry Holland, 3rd Duke of Exeter Anne Holland, Baroness Neville |
| Father | John Holland, 1st Duke of Exeter |
| Mother | Elizabeth of Lancaster |
Contents
His Family Background
John Holland was born on March 29, 1395, in Dartington, England. His father was also named John Holland, the 1st Duke of Exeter. His mother was Elizabeth of Lancaster.
His family had strong connections to the royal family. His father was a half-brother to King Richard II of England. Through his mother, John was a nephew of King Henry IV of England. This made him a first cousin to King Henry V of England and a first cousin once removed to King Henry VI of England.
Early Life and Challenges
When John was a young boy, his father was involved in a plot against King Henry IV. Because of this, his father lost his titles and lands. The Holland family's wealth and noble status were taken away.
However, John worked hard to regain his family's honor. He dedicated his life to serving the king. This loyalty helped him get back his family's titles and lands.
A Brave Commander
John Holland proved himself as a brave soldier. In 1415, he joined King Henry V's army in France. He fought with great courage at the famous Battle of Agincourt. This battle was a major victory for England.
The next year, John's family titles were given back to him. He became the Earl of Huntingdon. He was also made a Knight of the Garter, which is a very high honor.
Over the next few years, John held many important roles in the English army in France. In 1420, he became the Constable of the Tower of London. This meant he was in charge of the famous Tower of London.
In 1421, John was captured by the French at the Battle of Baugé. He spent four years as a prisoner. He was finally released in 1425.
Important Roles and Honors
John Holland held many important positions during his career. He was a skilled leader both on land and at sea.
- From 1416 to 1435, he was a top officer in the English navy. He helped lead the fleet.
- In 1435, he became the High Admiral of England, Ireland, and Aquitaine. This made him the head of the entire navy.
- In 1439, he was made the king's representative in Aquitaine, a region in France controlled by England.
- In 1443, he regained his father's highest title, becoming the 2nd Duke of Exeter. This showed how much the king trusted and valued him.
His Family
John Holland was married three times.
- His first wife was Lady Anne Stafford. They married in 1427. They had two children:
- Henry Holland, 3rd Duke of Exeter (born in 1430).
- Lady Anne Holland (died in 1486). She married three times.
- His second wife was Beatrice of Portugal. They married in 1433.
- His third wife was Lady Anne Montagu.
Death and Burial
John Holland passed away on August 5, 1447, at the age of 52. He was buried at St Katharine's by the Tower in London. You can see a statue of him, called an effigy, in the Chapel of St. Peter ad Vincula in the Tower of London.
