Michael de la Pole facts for kids

Michael de la Pole refers to several important figures in English history, all from the same noble family. They were known as the Earls of Suffolk and played key roles in the government and events of their time.

Who Was Michael de la Pole?

The name Michael de la Pole belonged to three different men who were all part of a powerful family in England during the 1300s and early 1400s. They were important nobles who held high positions and were involved in the politics of their era.

Michael de la Pole, 1st Earl of Suffolk (1330–1389)

Michael de la Pole was a very important person in England during the reign of King Richard II. He was born around 1330. He became a close friend and advisor to the young king.

His Role in Government

Michael de la Pole served as the Lord Chancellor of England. This was a very powerful job, similar to being the king's chief minister or main advisor. He was responsible for many important government tasks and legal matters.

Becoming an Earl

In 1385, King Richard II made Michael de la Pole the Earl of Suffolk. This was a high honor, giving him a special title and more land and power. However, his close relationship with the king made other powerful nobles, known as the Lords Appellant, unhappy. They accused him of misusing his power.

Later Life

Because of these disagreements with other nobles, Michael de la Pole was eventually removed from his position and had to leave England. He died in Paris, France, in 1389.

Michael de la Pole, 2nd Earl of Suffolk (1367–1415)

The second Michael de la Pole was the son of the first Earl. He was born around 1367. He inherited his father's title and lands after his father's death.

His Time as Earl

Unlike his father, the 2nd Earl tried to stay out of the big political fights of the time. He mostly focused on managing his family's estates and lands. He lived during a period when England was involved in wars with France, known as the Hundred Years' War.

Battle of Harfleur

Michael de la Pole, 2nd Earl of Suffolk, died in 1415 during the Siege of Harfleur in France. This was an important battle during the Hundred Years' War, led by King Henry V of England. Many English soldiers, including the Earl, died from a disease called dysentery during the siege.

Michael de la Pole, 3rd Earl of Suffolk (1394–1415)

The third Michael de la Pole was the son of the 2nd Earl. He was born in 1394. He became the Earl of Suffolk after his father died.

A Short Time as Earl

Sadly, the 3rd Earl's time with the title was very short. He also died in 1415, just a few weeks after his father. He died at the famous Battle of Agincourt, which was a major victory for England against France during the Hundred Years' War. He was very young when he died.