Thomas Boleyn

Thomas Boleyn, born circa 1477 at Hever Castle in Kent, was an English diplomat and politician, notable for being the father of Anne Boleyn, the second wife of King Henry VIII, and grandfather of Queen Elizabeth I. His diplomatic career included attending the wedding of Prince Arthur and Catherine of Aragon and escorting Princess Margaret Tudor to Scotland for her marriage to King James IV. His successful diplomatic missions led to his appointment as ambassador to the Low Countries and subsequent close relationship with Archduchess Margaret of Austria, who accepted his daughter Anne as a maid of honour. His political career was further advanced by his appointment as Lord Privy Seal and Treasurer of the Household under Henry VIII.

Thomas Boleyn’s advancement in court was accompanied by the acquisition of titles, including Knight of the Garter and Earl of Wiltshire and Ormond, largely due to his family connections and his own merit as a diplomat. However, his legacy is often overshadowed by his involvement in the rise and fall of his children, Anne and George Boleyn, both of whom were executed for treason. He died on 12 March 1539 and was laid to rest at St. Peter’s Church, Hever.