Henry Percy

Sir Henry Percy KG was an English knight born on 20 May 1364, the eldest son of Henry Percy, 1st Earl of Northumberland, and Margaret Neville. He was born at either Alnwick Castle, Warkworth Castle, or Spofforth Castle. The Percy family was a powerful force in Northern England, often in conflict with the Neville family. Henry was knighted at the age of 13 by King Edward III, alongside Richard of Bordeaux and Henry Bolingbroke.

In 1378, Henry Percy gained his first battle experience during the siege of Berwick Castle, where he played a role under his father's command. The following year, he married Elizabeth Mortimer, strengthening the Percy family's alliances. By 1385, he was appointed as the sole East March Warden, demonstrating his growing responsibilities and influence. His participation in a campaign into Scotland earned him the nickname "Hotspur" from the Scots.

Henry Percy was involved in the Anglo-French conflicts, leading attacks in France and commanding a naval army to relieve an English garrison at Brest in 1387. For his military achievements, he was made a Knight of the Garter in 1388. He was captured at the Battle of Otterburn in the same year but was later ransomed. His relationship with King Richard II soured, leading him to support Henry Bolingbroke's rebellion in 1399.

After Richard II's deposition, Henry Percy received lands and favor from the new King Henry IV. However, disputes over payments and prisoners led to tensions between the Percys and the king. In 1403, these tensions culminated in a rebellion, with Henry Percy attempting to seize Shrewsbury. His forces were defeated by King Henry IV's army, and he was killed in the ensuing battle.

Henry Percy's death occurred during the Battle of Shrewsbury on 21 July 1403. His body was initially buried in Whitchurch, Shropshire, but was later exhumed and displayed to quell rumors of his survival. Eventually, his remains were returned to his wife and interred in York Minster.

Henry Percy was succeeded by his son, Henry Percy, 2nd Earl of Northumberland. His daughter, Elizabeth Percy, became the Countess of Westmorland.