Edward Cromwell, 3rd Baron Cromwell, Governor of Lecale (b. 1560)

Edward Cromwell, known formally as the 3rd Baron Cromwell, was an English peer whose life spanned from approximately 1559 until his death on 27 April 1607. His existence unfolded during a vibrant and often tumultuous period of English history, encompassing the latter part of Queen Elizabeth I's long reign and the nascent years of King James I's ascendancy to the throne. As a peer, he held a hereditary title, granting him status and certain privileges within the realm's social and political hierarchy.

His lineage was deeply embedded in the English aristocracy, connecting him to some of the most influential families of the era. Edward was the son of Henry Cromwell, the 2nd Baron Cromwell, inheriting his title and responsibilities from him. His mother was Mary, a woman of significant standing herself, being the daughter of John Paulet, the 2nd Marquess of Winchester. The Marquess of Winchester was a formidable figure, and his first wife, Elizabeth Willoughby, completed Mary's immediate parental heritage. This union between Henry Cromwell and Mary Paulet therefore interwove the Cromwell barony with the powerful and extensive network of the Paulet and Willoughby families, further solidifying the Cromwells' position within the English peerage.

The Barony of Cromwell, a distinction marking their noble status, was not an ancient title but rather a relatively new creation stemming from the previous generation. It was Edward's grandfather, Gregory Cromwell, who first received this honour, being created Baron Cromwell on 18 December 1540. Gregory's father, and thus Edward's great-grandfather, was the legendary Thomas Cromwell, a figure of immense historical importance. Thomas Cromwell served as the chief minister to King Henry VIII, orchestrating many of the king's most significant policies, particularly the English Reformation. Although Thomas Cromwell met a dramatic end, his son Gregory's ennoblement ensured that the family name, despite its complexities, continued to hold a place within the peerage, passing down through the generations to Edward.

Common Queries About Edward Cromwell

Who was Edward Cromwell?

Edward Cromwell was the 3rd Baron Cromwell, an English peer who lived during the late 16th and early 17th centuries.

What were his life dates?

He was born around 1559 and passed away on 27 April 1607.

Who were Edward Cromwell's parents?

His father was Henry Cromwell, the 2nd Baron Cromwell, and his mother was Mary, daughter of John Paulet, 2nd Marquess of Winchester, and Elizabeth Willoughby.

How did the Barony of Cromwell originate?

The barony was created for Edward's grandfather, Gregory Cromwell, on 18 December 1540. Gregory was the son of Thomas Cromwell, the powerful chief minister to King Henry VIII.

What was Edward Cromwell's connection to Thomas Cromwell?

Edward Cromwell was the great-grandson of Thomas Cromwell, the influential chief minister during the reign of King Henry VIII.