Norfolk, Thomas Howard, 2nd duke of

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Norfolk, Thomas Howard, 2nd duke of (1443–1524). Norfolk had a remarkable political and military career at the highest level, despite a bad start. His father was a prominent Yorkist, who fought at Towton, was created duke by Richard III, and died fighting at his side at Bosworth. The son was wounded at Barnet in 1471 and taken prisoner at Bosworth. He spent some years in the Tower before Henry VII restored his title as earl of Surrey and in 1489 made him chief justice in Eyre north of Trent, with heavy law and order responsibilities. From 1501 to 1522 he was lord high treasurer. In 1510 Henry VIII made him earl marshal for life and in 1513 he annihilated the Scots at the battle of Flodden, showing himself a capable and determined commander, even at 70. His reward was the dukedom of Norfolk. In the king's absence in France at the Field of Cloth of Gold in 1520, Norfolk acted as guardian of England. For a man who started on the wrong side, this was a crowning achievement.

J. A. Cannon

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Thomas Howard 2d duke of Norfolk

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