Oxford, Robert de Vere, 9th earl of

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Oxford, Robert de Vere, 9th earl of (1362–92). According to a chronicler, the 9th earl was one of the young men brought up with Richard II who plotted the death of John of Gaunt in 1384. Oxford's inheritance was meagre for his rank, but Richard's favour enriched him; he was also raised in the peerage, to marquis of Dublin in 1385 and duke of Ireland in 1386. Thomas of Woodstock and other critics of the king were incensed by Oxford's conspicuous enjoyment of royal patronage. When Richard was planning to regain control of government in 1387, Oxford raised forces in Cheshire; they were defeated at Radcot Bridge (Oxon.). He was one of the royal favourites indicted in the Merciless Parliament of 1388, but had fled and remained in exile until his death at Louvain.

R. L. Storey

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