Walter FitzWalter, 7th Baron FitzWalter facts for kids
Walter FitzWalter, 7th Baron FitzWalter (born around 1400 – died November 23, 1431) was an English soldier and a noble leader. He lived during a time when England was often at war with France.
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Early Life and Family
Walter was the second son of Walter Fitzwalter, who was also a Baron Fitzwalter. His mother was Joan Devereux. Sadly, Walter's parents both passed away when he was young.
After his parents died, Walter was cared for by his father's stepmother, Philippa Mohun. She was married to Edward, the 2nd Duke of York, who was a very important person. This meant Walter grew up in a powerful and influential family.
Becoming a Baron
In 1415, Walter's older brother, Humphrey, died. This meant Walter became the 7th Baron Fitzwalter. This title made him a significant nobleman in England. He also became a regular guest at the English royal court, which was the King's home and where important decisions were made. In 1420, King Henry V of England made Walter a knight, which was a great honor.
Military Adventures
Walter FitzWalter was a soldier and took part in many important battles and campaigns.
Fighting in France
In 1420, Walter joined King Henry V in the Hundred Years' War. This was a long conflict between England and France. Walter was with the King during the siege of Melun, a major battle where English forces surrounded the city for several months.
On March 22, 1421, Walter fought in the Battle of Baugé. The English lost this battle, and Walter was captured by the French army. He was held prisoner for two years and was only set free in 1423 after a large amount of money was paid as a ransom.
The Battle of Brouwershaven
In 1425, Walter was asked by Humphrey, Duke of Gloucester, to lead an English fleet. The Duke wanted to claim control of two areas called Holland and Zeeland for his future wife, Jacqueline.
In January 1426, Walter and his soldiers landed in Zeeland. They fought in a battle known as the Battle of Brouwershaven. However, the English and their allies were defeated by a powerful fleet from Flanders and Burgundy, led by Philip the Good. Walter and his men had to retreat, and they suffered many losses.
Later Life and Death
Walter continued to serve England in different ways.
Serving in Parliament
In 1429 and 1430, Walter was a member of the Parliament of England. This meant he helped make important decisions for the country.
Final Campaign and Burial
In 1431, Walter went to France again for another military campaign. Sadly, he died there soon after, though the exact reasons are not known. His body was brought back to England and buried at Little Dunmow Priory in Essex.
Walter was succeeded by his only daughter, Elisabeth Fitzwalter, who was born in 1430. Her mother was Elizabeth Chideock.
Sources
- Oxford Dictionary of National Biography, from the earliest times to the year 2000 (ODNB) : Walter Fitzwalter, fifth Baron Fitzwalter (1400–1431) by Christopher Starr. Oxford University Press, Oxford 2004, ISBN 0-19-861411-X
