Henry VIII had one acknowledged illegitimate child, Henry Fitzroy. While he was rumored to have had many others, Henry Fitzroy was the only one he officially recognized.
Henry VIII's Acknowledged Illegitimate Child
Henry VIII, the notorious King of England, is officially known to have acknowledged only one illegitimate son: Henry Fitzroy. Born on June 15, 1519, Fitzroy was a significant figure during his brief life due to his royal lineage.
Details of Henry Fitzroy
- Name: Henry Fitzroy, 1st Duke of Richmond and Somerset
- Birth Date: June 15, 1519
- Mother: Elizabeth Blount, a lady-in-waiting to Henry VIII's first wife, Catherine of Aragon.
- Significance: Fitzroy was given significant titles, including Duke of Richmond and Somerset, and was even considered by some as a potential heir to the throne, especially before the birth of Henry VIII's legitimate son, Edward VI. However, he died at a young age on July 23, 1536, before any such succession could occur.
Understanding Illegitimacy in the Tudor Era
In the Tudor period, the acknowledgement of illegitimate children by monarchs was rare but not unheard of. An acknowledged illegitimate child, especially a son, could sometimes hold a degree of influence or importance, though they were typically excluded from the line of succession to the throne.
Known Acknowledged Illegitimate Child
| Name | Birth Date | Mother | Titles | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Henry Fitzroy | June 15, 1519 | Elizabeth Blount | Duke of Richmond and Somerset, Earl of Nottingham | Only illegitimate child officially acknowledged by Henry VIII. |
Suspected Illegitimate Children
Beyond Henry Fitzroy, historical accounts and rumors suggest that Henry VIII may have had many other illegitimate children. However, these claims lack definitive proof or official acknowledgment from the King himself. As such, an exact number for his suspected illegitimate children is not known. Historians continue to debate the veracity of these claims, as documentation from the period can be scarce or inconclusive regarding such private matters.
For more information on Henry VIII's children and family, you can refer to resources from reputable historical institutions like the Royal Museums Greenwich.
