John Talbot, 2nd Earl of Shrewsbury facts for kids
John Talbot, 2nd Earl of Shrewsbury (born 12 December 1413 – died 10 July 1460) was an important English nobleman and soldier. He held several titles, including the 2nd Earl of Waterford and 8th Baron Talbot. He was also a Knight of the Garter, which is a very special award.
John Talbot was the son of John Talbot, 1st Earl of Shrewsbury, who was also a famous soldier. His mother was Maud Neville. John Talbot followed in his father's footsteps, serving the English Crown. He was a supporter of the House of Lancaster during the Wars of the Roses. He died fighting in the Battle of Northampton.
Early Life and Family
John Talbot was born at Sheffield Castle. As a young boy, he was made a knight in 1426 by King Henry VI. This was a great honor for someone so young.
He married Lady Elizabeth Butler. This marriage was important because it helped to end a long-standing disagreement between the Talbot and Butler families in Ireland.
John and Elizabeth had seven children:
- Lady Anne Talbot (born around 1445 – died 17 May 1494)
- John Talbot, 3rd Earl of Shrewsbury (born 12 December 1448 – died 28 June 1473)
- Sir James Talbot (born around 1450 – died 2 September 1471)
- Sir Gilbert Talbot, KG (born 1452 – died 1517 or 1518)
- Christopher Talbot (born around 1454 – after 1474)
- Sir George Talbot (born around 1456)
- Margaret Talbot (born around 1460)
Life as a Statesman
John Talbot grew up mostly with his mother. His father was often away fighting in Ireland and France. In 1445, John became the Lord Chancellor of Ireland. This meant he was a chief official for the King in Ireland.
Later, he became a key supporter of Queen Margaret, the wife of King Henry VI. He was appointed Lord High Treasurer of England in 1456. This important job meant he was in charge of the King's money and finances. He worked to collect taxes and manage the royal treasury during a difficult economic time for England.
In 1457, he was made a Knight of the Garter. This is one of the highest honors a person can receive in England. It showed how much the King and Queen trusted him.
John Talbot was a strong supporter of the Lancastrian side during the Wars of the Roses. This was a series of wars fought between two powerful families, the House of Lancaster and the House of York, for control of the English throne.
Death
On 10 July 1460, John Talbot was killed during the Battle of Northampton. This battle was a major event in the Wars of the Roses. He died fighting for the Lancastrian cause.
See also
- List of Lord High Treasurers of England and Great Britain
