William Fitzwilliam, Earl of Southampton – Henry VIII’s boyhood companion who became his enforcer

On this day in Tudor history, 15th October 1542, William Fitzwilliam, Earl of Southampton, died on campaign at Newcastle-upon-Tyne, serving Henry VIII one last time.

Southampton had been by the king's side since childhood, when he'd been placed in Prince Henry's household. He grew up to become a soldier, sailor, ambassador, and royal enforcer.

From being injured in a naval strike in 1512, to helping with the organisation of the Field of Cloth of Gold, and being involved in the falls of Wolsey, Anne Boleyn, Cromwell and Catherine Howard, Fitzwilliam's career ran through the heart of Tudor power.

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