Robert Dudley

Upon Elizabeth I's accession, Dudley was appointed Master of the Horse, a prestigious court position. He became the queen's close friend and favorite, and there were rumors of a possible marriage, though he was already married to Amy Robsart.

Dudley's wife Amy Robsart was found dead at the bottom of a staircase at Cumnor Place. The circumstances were suspicious, and rumors spread that Dudley had arranged her death to marry Elizabeth. An inquest ruled it an accident, but the scandal damaged his reputation.

Dudley was appointed Governor-General of the United Provinces of the Netherlands, leading an English expeditionary force to support the Dutch revolt against Spain. His military campaign was indecisive, and he clashed with Dutch leaders, leading to his recall in 1587.

Dudley was appointed Lieutenant-General of the English army assembled at Tilbury to defend against the Spanish Armada. He gave a rousing speech to the troops and oversaw the land defenses, though the Armada was defeated at sea before any land battle occurred.

Dudley died at Cornbury Park shortly after the Armada's defeat. His death deeply affected Elizabeth I, who kept his last letter. He was buried in the Beauchamp Chapel at Warwick, leaving no legitimate heir, and his title of Earl of Leicester became extinct.