Aubrey de Vere, 10th Earl of Oxford, English politician and nobleman (b. c. 1338)

Aubrey de Vere, born around 1338, embarked on a life that would see him navigate the complex political landscape of late medieval England, ultimately ascending to the esteemed title of 10th Earl of Oxford. His journey to this prominent position was not direct, marked instead by the misfortunes of his elder brothers and the dramatic downfall of his notorious nephew.

Hailing from one of England's most ancient and distinguished noble families, the de Veres, Aubrey was the third son of John de Vere, the 7th Earl of Oxford, and Maud de Badlesmere. His mother was the daughter of Bartholomew de Badlesmere, 1st Lord Badlesmere, further cementing his lineage within the English aristocracy. Aubrey shared his early life with three brothers—John, Thomas, and Robert—and three sisters—Margaret, Maud, and Elizabeth.

An Unexpected Path to the Earldom

In an era where primogeniture dictated that the eldest son typically inherited family titles and estates, Aubrey's succession to the Earldom of Oxford was a testament to a series of unforeseen circumstances. His eldest brother, John, who had married the daughter of Hugh Courtenay, Earl of Devon, tragically died in 1350, predeceasing their father. Another brother, Robert, also passed away during their father's lifetime, leaving the path open for the next in line.

It was Aubrey's third brother, Thomas, who succeeded their father as the 8th Earl of Oxford. Thomas's tenure as Earl was followed by his only son, Robert de Vere, who became the 9th Earl of Oxford. This Robert, a figure of significant historical intrigue and controversy, would become a close favorite of King Richard II, rising to extraordinary heights, including being created Marquess of Dublin and then Duke of Ireland – titles previously unheard of for a non-royal in England. However, his political fortunes took a dramatic turn. In 1388, during the turbulent period dominated by the Lords Appellant who sought to curb the king's power, Robert was accused of treason at the Merciless Parliament and fled into exile. He died without issue in 1392, an event that profoundly altered the de Vere succession. With no direct heirs from his predecessors, the earldom, after a period of being held in abeyance or forfeit, was rightfully bestowed upon Aubrey, making him the 10th Earl of Oxford.

Years of Service and Royal Connections

Before inheriting the earldom, Aubrey de Vere had already established a career of loyal service to the Crown. In 1360, he was appointed steward of the royal forest of Havering in Essex, a significant administrative role overseeing the king's lands and resources. His service continued to grow in prominence when, in 1367, he was retained to 'abide for life' with Edward, the Black Prince, the revered eldest son of King Edward III and a celebrated military commander. This commitment meant a substantial allowance and a privileged position within the prince's household, signifying deep trust and esteem.

Aubrey's military and administrative capabilities were further recognized. He was knighted, a prestigious honor reflecting his status and service. In 1375, he was made constable of Wallingford Castle, a crucial royal fortress, and also granted the associated "honours" (feudal rights and revenues) of Wallingford and St. Valery. However, this tenure was relatively brief, as he exchanged Wallingford in 1378 for the constableship of Hadleigh Castle in Essex. His diplomatic skills were also put to use, with King Edward III employing him as an ambassador in attempts to seek peace with France during the ongoing Hundred Years' War, a testament to his intelligence and trusted standing.

Political Ascent Amidst Turmoil

As the political landscape shifted with the ascent of King Richard II, Aubrey de Vere's career continued to flourish. In 1381, he was appointed Chamberlain of the Royal Household, a powerful and intimate role that involved managing the king's domestic affairs and often acting as a close advisor. Simultaneously, he became a member of the Privy Council, placing him at the heart of royal decision-making and governance.

However, Aubrey's rise was not without its challenges, notably those stemming from the controversial actions of his nephew, Robert de Vere, the 9th Earl. Robert's extraordinary influence over King Richard II led to widespread resentment among the established nobility, culminating in the crisis of 1387-1388. As mentioned, Robert was declared a traitor by the Merciless Parliament, and while he escaped with his life into exile, the repercussions were felt by his family. This political fallout directly impacted Aubrey, causing him to lose his post as Chamberlain. It was a turbulent period where loyalty and familial ties were severely tested.

Restoration and Legacy

The tide turned for Aubrey de Vere with the death of his nephew, Robert, in 1392. With Robert having died without issue, and the political climate having somewhat stabilized, King Richard II officially restored the title of Earl of Oxford to Aubrey. This not only reinstated his family's honor but also allowed Aubrey to take his rightful seat in Parliament as a peer of the realm, cementing his place in the upper echelons of English society. He lived for another eight years, holding the earldom until his death on 23 April 1400.

Upon Aubrey's passing, the Earldom of Oxford transitioned smoothly to his son, Richard, who became the 11th Earl. This ensured the continuity of the distinguished de Vere line. A small but telling detail of Aubrey's affairs appears in records from 1401, where William Tasburgh, a parson from Rayleigh, is noted as an administrator of Aubrey de Vere's estate, indicating the process of managing his posthumous affairs and demonstrating the organized nature of aristocratic life even after death.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Aubrey de Vere, 10th Earl of Oxford?

Aubrey de Vere (c. 1338 – 23 April 1400) was an English nobleman who served the Crown in various capacities before inheriting the prestigious title of 10th Earl of Oxford. He was the third son of John de Vere, 7th Earl of Oxford.

How did Aubrey de Vere become Earl of Oxford?

Aubrey's path to the earldom was indirect. His two elder brothers died before their father. His third brother, Thomas, became the 8th Earl, and Thomas's son, Robert, became the 9th Earl. When Robert de Vere, the controversial favorite of King Richard II, died in exile in 1392 without any legitimate children, Aubrey inherited the title as the closest surviving male heir.

What significant roles did Aubrey de Vere hold during his career?

Aubrey de Vere held several important positions, including steward of the royal forest of Havering, being retained for life with the Black Prince, constable of Wallingford Castle (and later Hadleigh Castle), an ambassador for King Edward III, Chamberlain of the Royal Household, and a member of the Privy Council.

How was Aubrey de Vere connected to Robert de Vere, Duke of Ireland?

Aubrey de Vere was the uncle of Robert de Vere, the 9th Earl of Oxford and notorious Duke of Ireland. Robert was a close favorite of King Richard II, whose political downfall and declaration as a traitor in 1388 led to Aubrey temporarily losing his post as Chamberlain. However, Robert's subsequent death without issue ultimately cleared the way for Aubrey to inherit the earldom.

When did Aubrey de Vere die and who succeeded him?

Aubrey de Vere died on 23 April 1400. He was succeeded by his son, Richard de Vere, who became the 11th Earl of Oxford.