Thomas Howard

Thomas Howard, the son of Thomas Howard, 2nd Duke of Norfolk, was born in 1473. He married Anne, the daughter of Edward IV and sister-in-law of Henry VII, in 1495. After her death in 1512, Howard married Elizabeth, the daughter of Edward Stafford, 3rd Duke of Buckingham, who was executed by Henry VIII in 1521.

Howard held several high offices, including Lord High Admiral and Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. As Lord Steward he also presided over the trial for adultery of his niece, Anne Boleyn, in 1536. He also played a leading role in putting down the Pilgrimage of Gracerebellion.

In 1542 another niece and queen, Catherine Howard, was beheaded for adultery. Henry VIII now doubted Howard's loyalty and he was arrested. So was his son, Henry Howard, who was executed for treason in 1547.

Howard remained in prison throughout the reign of Edward VI but was released by Mary in 1553. Thomas Howard, 3rd Duke of Norfolk, died in 1554.