When was Richard Empson born and where did he live?
Richard Empson was born about 1450 in Northamptonshire. His father Peter Empson held property at Towcester and Easton Neston.
Questions about Richard Empson
Short answers, pulled from the story.
What political roles did Richard Empson hold under Henry VII?
In 1491 Richard Empson became a Knight of the shire for Northamptonshire in Parliament and served as Speaker of the House of Commons that same year. From around 1504 he became a key figure of the Council Learned in the Law to maximize royal revenues.
How much money did Richard Empson collect for Henry VII?
According to contemporary accounts, Empson and Dudley collected over £200,000 for Henry VII in just four years. Their enforcement methods made them very unpopular among the people they targeted.
Why was Richard Empson executed by Henry VIII?
Henry VIII ordered Empson thrown into prison after ascending to the throne and charged him with constructive treason alongside Edmund Dudley. A conviction occurred at Northampton in October 1509 before Richard Empson was beheaded on the 17th of August 1510.
Who were the children of Richard Empson and what marriages did they make?
Richard Empson married Lady Jane Hill who bore him ten children including Thomas who married Audrey Wolston and Elizabeth who first married George Catesby then Thomas Lucy in August 1509. These marriages connected the family to prominent noble houses across England.