Richard de Vere, 11th Earl of Oxford, English commander (b. 1385)

Richard de Vere, the 11th Earl of Oxford and a distinguished Knight of the Garter (KG), was a prominent figure in early 15th-century England, known for his military prowess and involvement in significant political events of his time. Born on 15 August 1385, he inherited a long and illustrious lineage, destined to play a crucial role during the turbulent reign of King Henry V.

As the son and heir of Aubrey de Vere, the 10th Earl of Oxford, Richard succeeded to one of England's most ancient and powerful earldoms. The De Vere family held the Earldom of Oxford since the 12th century, making them hereditary Lord Great Chamberlains of England for centuries – a testament to their enduring influence and status within the English peerage. This prestigious background prepared Richard for a life of public service, both in the court and on the battlefield.

Participation in the Trial of the Southampton Plot

In the pivotal year of 1415, just as King Henry V was preparing his grand expedition to France, Richard de Vere found himself involved in a critical moment for the English Crown: the unearthing of the Southampton Plot. This audacious conspiracy aimed to depose King Henry V and replace him with Edmund Mortimer, 5th Earl of March, who was technically next in the line of succession according to some interpretations, despite Henry V being the reigning monarch. The key conspirators were Richard, Earl of Cambridge (King Henry V's cousin), Henry Scrope, 3rd Baron Scrope of Masham (a trusted chamberlain), and Sir Thomas Grey of Heton.

As a peer of the realm, the 11th Earl of Oxford was appointed as one of the judges in the high-stakes trial that followed the discovery of the plot. His role was crucial in ensuring justice was served against the traitors who sought to undermine the English monarchy on the eve of a major military campaign. The conspirators were swiftly tried and executed, an act that solidified Henry V’s authority and cleared the path for his invasion of France without internal threats.

A Commander at the Battle of Agincourt

Following the resolution of the Southampton Plot, Richard de Vere sailed to France with King Henry V's army, playing a significant role in one of England's most celebrated military victories. At the Battle of Agincourt, fought on 25 October 1415, the English forces, though heavily outnumbered, achieved a decisive triumph over the French. Richard de Vere served as one of the key commanders, leading a contingent of English men-at-arms and archers. His position as an Earl meant he would have been responsible for a significant retinue, contributing to the strategic deployment and fighting prowess of the English line.

The Battle of Agincourt, a defining moment in the Hundred Years' War, saw the innovative use of longbowmen and the tactical genius of King Henry V. Richard de Vere's presence on the battlefield underscored his commitment to the Crown and his military leadership, further cementing his reputation during a period of intense conflict between England and France.

Tragically, Richard de Vere's distinguished career was cut short. He passed away just over a year after Agincourt, on 15 February 1417, at the relatively young age of 31 or 32. His early death meant his only son, John, succeeded him as the 12th Earl of Oxford, continuing the De Vere legacy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Richard de Vere

Who was Richard de Vere, 11th Earl of Oxford?
Richard de Vere was a prominent English nobleman and military commander during the early 15th century. He was the son and heir of the 10th Earl of Oxford and held the prestigious title of Knight of the Garter. He is best known for his involvement in the trial of the Southampton Plot conspirators and his role as a commander at the Battle of Agincourt in 1415.
What was the significance of the Earldom of Oxford?
The Earldom of Oxford was one of the oldest and most influential noble titles in England, held by the De Vere family since the 12th century. The Earls of Oxford also historically served as hereditary Lord Great Chamberlains of England, underscoring their significant power and ceremonial role within the English monarchy.
What was the Southampton Plot?
The Southampton Plot was a conspiracy discovered in 1415, just before King Henry V's invasion of France. Its aim was to assassinate Henry V and place Edmund Mortimer, 5th Earl of March, on the English throne. Richard de Vere, as a peer, participated in the trial that led to the swift execution of the plotters, including Richard, Earl of Cambridge, and Lord Scrope of Masham.
What was Richard de Vere's role at the Battle of Agincourt?
Richard de Vere was one of the commanders in King Henry V's English army at the Battle of Agincourt in 1415. As an Earl, he would have led a significant contingent of men-at-arms and archers, contributing to the famous English victory over the French forces during the Hundred Years' War.
When did Richard de Vere die?
Richard de Vere, 11th Earl of Oxford, died on 15 February 1417, at the age of 31 or 32, just over a year after his participation in the Battle of Agincourt.