Valentine Dale facts for kids

Valentine Dale was an important English lawyer and diplomat who lived in the 1500s. He worked as a judge for the High Court of Admiralty from 1584 until he passed away in 1589. This court dealt with legal cases related to the sea and ships.

Early Life and Education

Valentine Dale began his studies at the University of Oxford in 1541. Even though he might not have finished his first degree there, he became a fellow at All Souls' College in 1542. A fellow is like a senior member or researcher at a college.

In 1545, he earned a degree in civil law. Later, he traveled to France and received a doctorate in civil law from the University of Orleans. He was also recognized with a similar degree at Oxford in 1552. In 1554, he joined the College of Advocates at Doctors' Commons, which was a group of top lawyers.

Political Career and Diplomacy

Valentine Dale was a member of the House of Commons, which is part of the English Parliament. He represented the town of Taunton three times between 1555 and 1559. Later, he served as a Member of Parliament for Chichester four times between 1572 and 1589.

Ambassador to Flanders and France

Dale also worked as a diplomat, representing England in other countries. In 1563, he was sent as an ambassador to Flanders (an area now part of Belgium). He went there again in December 1563 to address complaints against England.

In 1573, he became the resident ambassador in France, where he stayed until 1576. During this time, he also became the dean of Wells, an important position in the church.

Royal Commissions and Master of Requests

After his time in France, Valentine Dale served on several important royal commissions between 1576 and 1580. These commissions were special groups appointed by the Queen to investigate or manage specific tasks. He also became the Master of Requests from 1576 to 1589. This role involved handling petitions and requests made to the monarch.

Later Career and Important Trials

In 1585, Queen Elizabeth I asked Dale and Sir Julius Cæsar to manage the admiralty court while the main leader was away. This showed how much the Queen trusted his legal skills.

He was also involved in several important legal cases. In 1586, he helped with the trial of Anthony Babington and others accused of treason. He also assisted at the famous trial of Mary, Queen of Scots, in October 1586.

Negotiations with Spain

In 1588, Dale was part of a group of ambassadors sent to meet with Alexander Farnese, Duke of Parma. Their goal was to try and make a peace agreement between England and Spain. However, these talks broke down because Spain was preparing its large fleet, the Spanish Armada, to invade England.

Death and Legacy

Valentine Dale continued to serve in Parliament for Chichester in 1589. He was also present at the trial of Philip Howard, Earl of Arundel, for treason in April 1589.

He passed away on November 17, 1589, at his home near St. Paul's Cathedral in London. He was buried at St Gregory by St Paul's church. He also had a home in Hampshire and served as a justice of the peace there. His daughter, Dorothy, married Sir John North.

Sources

•  This article incorporates text from a publication now in the public domain:  "Dale, Valentine". Dictionary of National Biography. (1885–1900). London: Smith, Elder & Co.