Thomas Wyatt the Younger

Lore & Background

Thomas Wyatt the Younger was the eldest of four boys, raised a Roman Catholic. His godfather, Thomas Howard, 3rd Duke of Norfolk, had a significant influence on his upbringing. At age sixteen, he married Jane Haute.

Reader's Guide

Wyatt's rebellion stemmed from his aversion to Spanish government, developed during experiences with the Spanish Inquisition while accompanying his father. When Queen Mary announced her marriage to Philip of Spain, Wyatt viewed it as an injustice. He claimed he never planned to protest until approached by Edward Courtenay, 1st Earl of Devon. He commanded up to 1,500 men, later 4,000, and earned praise from the French ambassador. The government offered pardons to followers who retreated, but Wyatt falsely announced imminent French support. After initial successes, including the Duke of Norfolk's forces joining him, Wyatt marched toward London. However, his demands to have the Tower surrendered and the queen put in his charge caused negative reactions. After entering Southwark, he found London Bridge fortified and many followers abandoned him. He attempted to surprise Ludgate and capture the Queen's refuge in St James's Palace, but was cornered and arrested. He was tried for high treason and sentenced to death. His head was hung from a gallows before being stolen on 17 April; his limbs were circulated among towns. His estates were partly restored to his son George, whose son Sir Francis Wyatt became governor of Virginia.

Did You Know?

• Wyatt was the son of the poet Sir Thomas Wyatt, who introduced the sonnet into English literature.
• He was godson of Thomas Howard, 3rd Duke of Norfolk.
• During his execution, Wyatt asked to speak to Edward Courtenay, begging him to confess the truth, but on the scaffold exculpated Courtenay and Princess Elizabeth.
• His great-grandson was explorer and interpreter Captain Henry Fleete of Maryland and Virginia.