Thomas Stafford (rebel) facts for kids

Thomas Stafford (born around 1533, died May 28, 1557) was an English nobleman. He was involved in two uprisings against Queen Mary I and faced serious consequences for his actions.

Early Life of Thomas Stafford

Thomas Stafford was the ninth child of Henry Stafford, 1st Baron Stafford and Ursula Pole. He was their second son who lived to adulthood. Not much is known about his early years.

Travels and Royal Connections

We first hear about Thomas in 1550 when he traveled to Rome, Italy. There, he spent time with his uncle, Reginald Cardinal Pole. After three years in Italy, Thomas went to Poland. The King of Poland, Sigismund Augustus, even wrote a letter for him. King Augustus asked Queen Mary to give Thomas back his family's important title, the Dukedom of Buckingham.

Rebellions Against Queen Mary I

King Augustus's request did not seem to help Thomas. When Thomas Stafford returned to England in January 1554, he joined an uprising. This was called Wyatt's Rebellion, led by Thomas Wyatt the younger. The rebellion happened because many people were worried about Queen Mary's plan to marry Philip II of Spain.

First Uprising and Escape

The rebellion failed, and Thomas Stafford was caught. He was held for a short time in the Fleet Prison. But he managed to escape and fled to France. In France, he met with other English people who were also against Queen Mary. He kept trying to push his claim to the English throne.

The Scarborough Castle Attack

On April 18, 1557, which was Easter Sunday, Stafford sailed from Dieppe, France. He had two ships and more than 30 men with him. They landed in Scarborough, North Yorkshire on April 25, 1557. He walked right into the unguarded Scarborough Castle.

Proclaiming Himself Protector

Inside the castle, Thomas Stafford announced himself as the "Protector of the Realm." He tried to start a new revolt. He spoke out against the Queen's marriage to the Spanish prince. He also complained about Spain having too much influence in England. Stafford promised to return the crown to "true English blood." He even claimed he had seen letters showing that Scarborough and 12 other castles would be given to Philip II. He said these castles would be guarded by 12,000 Spanish soldiers before Philip's coronation.

Capture and End of the Rebellion

Just three days later, the Earl of Westmorland recaptured Scarborough Castle. Thomas Stafford and his companions were arrested.

Consequences and Death

Thomas Stafford was taken to the Tower of London. He was found guilty of treason, which means betraying his country. On May 28, 1557, he was beheaded on Tower Hill in London. Thirty-two of his followers were also executed after the rebellion.