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Monday, March 24, 2008

Question from Marian - Henry Fitzroy

What became of Henry Fitzroy? How long did he live? Was his royalty ever recognized?
Thank-you.

3 comments:

  1. I would have replied directly to you Marian, but you didn't leave an email address.

    Henry Fitzroy died when he was about 17 of a pulmonary infection of some sort. It is usually described as "consumption" which is often taken to mean tuberculosis, but I think it actually covers a range of illnesses that we recognize as separate diseases or conditions today.

    He was Henry VIII's only acknowledged bastard child (as far as I remember) and was given several noble titles, including Duke of Richmond. Also, the last name "Fitzroy" means "son of the king". So yes, his connection to the king was definitely recognized.

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  2. Just to follow-up on Lara's response - There is some speculation that the creation of Henry Fitzroy (at the age of 6) as earl of Nottingham, Duke of Richmond and Somerset was Henry VIII putting a succession insurance policy in place. Just in case he never got the son he wanted and just in case he decided Mary and Elizabeth would not succeed.

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  3. Beverley Murphy has written a good book on him if you're interested further - I wouldn't recommend any others on him.

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