Robert Poynings facts for kids

Sir Robert Poynings (born around 1419 – died 17 February 1461) was an important figure in English history. He was the second son of Robert Poynings, who was the 4th Baron Poynings.

Sir Robert took part in a big uprising led by Jack Cade in 1450. Later, he lost his life fighting for the Yorkist side during the Second Battle of St Albans in 1461.

About His Family

Robert Poynings was the second son of Robert Poynings, the 4th Baron Poynings. His mother was Eleanor Grey. She was the daughter of Reginald Grey, 3rd Baron Grey de Ruthyn.

Robert had an older brother named Sir Richard Poynings. Sadly, Richard died in France in 1429. He also had a younger brother, Edward Poynings. Edward became the Master of Trinity College in Arundel, Sussex.

Robert's father married a second time to Margaret Squery. From this marriage, Robert had a half-sister named Eleanor Poynings. She married Thomas Palmer.

His Life and Role

Sir Robert Poynings had some disagreements about land. His father, the 4th Baron, had given certain lands in Kent to Robert's niece, Eleanor Poynings. Robert believed these lands should have been his. He also claimed other lands and some of his father's belongings.

In the summer of 1450, Robert joined a large rebellion led by Jack Cade. This uprising was against the government. Robert was said to be a close helper to Cade. Because of his involvement, he was put in prison and declared an outlaw. This meant he lost some of his rights as a citizen.

Even after this, he was chosen to be a Member of Parliament for Sussex in 1450 and 1451. In 1457, he received an official pardon for his part in Cade's rebellion.

Sir Robert Poynings died on 17 February 1461. He was fighting for the Yorkist side in the Second Battle of St Albans.

Marriage and Son

In 1458, Robert Poynings married Elizabeth Paston. She was born in 1429 and died in 1488. Elizabeth was the daughter of William Paston.

Robert and Elizabeth had one son together, named Sir Edward Poynings. Sir Edward later married Elizabeth Scott.

After Robert's death, his wife Elizabeth married Sir George Browne. They had two sons, Sir Matthew Browne and George, and a daughter named Mary.