Henry IV

Date of Birth: April 3, 1367

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Date of Death: March 20, 1413

Biography

Henry IV, also known as Henry of Bolingbroke, was born on April 3, 1367, and became King of England from 1399 to 1413. He was the son of John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, and Blanche of Lancaster. Henry seized the throne from his cousin, Richard II, marking the beginning of the Lancastrian dynasty. His reign was marked by significant military and political challenges, including rebellions and conflicts with Scotland and Wales. Despite these challenges, Henry IV managed to consolidate his power and lay the groundwork for his son, Henry V, to lead England into the Hundred Years’ War.

5 Interesting Facts about Henry IV

1. Henry IV was the first English king since the Norman Conquest whose mother tongue was English rather than French.

2. He was involved in a number of military campaigns during his lifetime, including the suppression of the Welsh revolt led by Owain Glyndŵr.

3. Henry IV was exiled by Richard II in 1398 but returned to England the following year to reclaim his inheritance and ultimately seize the throne.

4. His reign saw the establishment of the “Lancastrian” claim to the throne, which would lead to the Wars of the Roses.

5. Henry IV was plagued by health issues, particularly a mysterious illness that caused him severe pain and debilitation in his later years.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Henry IV

1. “Rebellion in this land shall lose his sway, meeting the check of such another day.”

2. “Uneasy lies the head that wears a crown.”

3. “God knows, my son, by what by-paths and indirect crooked ways I met this crown.”

4. “O God, that one might read the book of fate.”

5. “Presume not that I am the thing I was.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Henry IV’s net worth is difficult to calculate in modern terms, but he controlled extensive lands and resources, making him one of the wealthiest individuals of his time.

Children

Henry IV had seven children: 1. Henry V of England (1386–1422) – succeeded him as king. 2. Thomas of Lancaster, Duke of Clarence (1387–1421). 3. John of Lancaster, Duke of Bedford (1389–1435). 4. Humphrey, Duke of Gloucester (1390–1447). 5. Blanche of England (1392–1409). 6. Philippa of England (1394–1430). 7. Edward of Lancaster (1395–1395).