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Lady Mary Howard
The jewel of Tudor court and my 12th great-aunt
In the dazzling tapestry of Tudor history, one figure stands out like a radiant gem: Mary Howard. Born into the illustrious Howard family, Mary’s life unfolded against the backdrop of one of the most dynamic periods in English history. Her story is one of intrigue, romance, and resilience, weaving a captivating narrative that illuminates the complexities of Tudor court life.
Mary was born around 1519, the daughter of Thomas Howard, 3rd Duke of Norfolk, and his second wife, Lady Elizabeth Stafford. Or so the story goes. As a member of the powerful Howard family, Mary was destined for a life of privilege and responsibility. The Howards, with their close connections to the royal court, played a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape of Tudor England.
In the intricate dance of Tudor court politics, marriages were not only unions of hearts but also strategic alliances. Mary’s first marriage was to Henry Fitzroy, Duke of Richmond and an acknowledged illegitimate son of King Henry VIII. This union elevated Mary’s status and placed her at the center of courtly affairs. However, Fitzroy’s untimely death in 1536 marked a turning point in Mary’s life, leaving her a young widow with much of her future uncertain.