Ralph Stafford (died 1385) facts for kids
Sir Ralph Stafford (born around 1367 – died July 1385) was a brave knight who served in the royal household of King Richard II of England. He was sadly killed in 1385 by the king's half-brother, John Holland. Some historians believe that Ralph was one of King Richard II's closest friends at court. They were the same age, and Ralph seemed to be a very smart and promising young man.
The Life of Sir Ralph Stafford
Ralph was the oldest son of Hugh Stafford, 2nd Earl of Stafford, and Philippa de Beauchamp. His mother was the daughter of Thomas de Beauchamp, 11th Earl of Warwick. When he was young, Ralph grew up in the home of Queen Anne of Bohemia. As a knight in the king's household, he joined the royal army during the invasion of Scotland in 1385.
Ralph's Tragic Death
In July 1385, Ralph was murdered between York and Bishopsthorpe. The person who killed him was John Holland, who was King Richard II's half-brother. It's thought that Holland might have been trying to get revenge. One of Holland's own squires (a knight's assistant) had been killed, possibly by an archer who was part of Ralph's group. There might have been a fight that led to the deaths of some people in Ralph's group.
It's possible that Holland killed Ralph by mistake, thinking he was the archer he was looking for. Or, it could have happened after they exchanged angry words. This event caused a lot of trouble for the army's campaign and many people at the time talked about it.
After Ralph's Death
Ralph Stafford was never married and did not have any children. Because of this, his family title, the earldom, went to his younger brother, Thomas.
King Richard II was very angry about Ralph's death and promised not to forgive Holland. However, the king later broke this promise in February 1386 and pardoned Holland. Ralph's father was very upset that the king did not punish the killer. That same year, he went on a long religious journey to Jerusalem. He died on his way back home in 1386. Ralph Stafford was buried in King's Langley Priory in Hertfordshire. It is said that the king lost a very important person when Ralph died. Ralph Stafford was not just a close friend, but also a potential strong supporter and important person at court for the king.
