Margaret de Clare facts for kids

Margaret de Clare (born October 12, 1293 – died April 9, 1342) was an important English noblewoman. She was a granddaughter of King Edward I of England. Margaret was known for her two marriages to powerful men. She was also a wealthy heiress, meaning she would inherit a lot of land and money.

Margaret's First Marriage

Margaret de Clare married Piers Gaveston on November 1, 1307. She was 14 years old. Piers Gaveston was a close friend of Margaret's uncle, King Edward II. The King wanted Piers to be stronger and have more friends. So, he arranged this marriage.

Piers Gaveston celebrated their wedding with a big party at Wallingford Castle. Many English nobles were not happy about this marriage. They did not like that such an important heiress was marrying someone from another country.

Margaret and Piers had a daughter named Joan Gaveston. She was born in York on January 12, 1312. King Edward was very happy about Joan's birth. He held a big celebration with music. Sadly, Piers Gaveston was executed just six months later. This left Margaret a widow with a young child.

After Piers died, Margaret faced problems getting her rightful share of his lands. King Edward helped her by giving her Oakham Castle and other properties. She then joined the royal household. She traveled with the King from London to York in 1316.

A New Inheritance and Second Marriage

In 1314, Margaret's brother, Gilbert de Clare, 7th Earl of Hertford, died in battle. This meant Margaret and her two sisters, Elizabeth and Eleanor de Clare, shared a huge inheritance. Margaret became one of the main heirs to the large Gloucester estate.

King Edward then arranged a second marriage for Margaret. She married Hugh de Audley, 1st Earl of Gloucester. He was another favorite of the King. Margaret and Hugh were married at Windsor Castle on April 28, 1317. They had one daughter together, named Margaret Audley. She was born between 1318 and 1320.

The Despenser War

Margaret and Hugh faced trouble because of her brother-in-law, Hugh the younger Despenser. He was very greedy for the Clare family lands. He took much of Margaret's rightful inheritance.

In 1321, Hugh de Audley joined other powerful lords. They attacked Despenser's lands. This led to a conflict known as the Despenser War. Hugh de Audley was captured in 1322. His wife Margaret begged for his life, saving him from execution. Hugh was sent to prison. Two months later, Margaret was sent to Sempringham Priory in Lincolnshire. She stayed there until 1326. That year, Hugh escaped from prison, and Margaret was set free.

Becoming Countess of Gloucester

Hugh and Margaret were reunited in 1326. In 1336, their only daughter, Margaret Audley, was taken by Ralph Stafford, 1st Earl of Stafford. Her parents complained to the King. However, King Edward III supported Stafford.

To make Hugh and Margaret happy, King Edward III gave Hugh the title of Earl of Gloucester. From then on, Margaret was known as the Countess of Gloucester.

Margaret's Death

Margaret de Clare passed away on April 9, 1342. Her sister, Lady Elizabeth de Clare, paid for special prayers for her soul. Margaret was buried at Tonbridge Priory in Kent, England.

Sources

• Fine rolls
• Patent roll