Gloucester, DUKES AND EARLS OF. (1) ROBERT, Earl of Gloucester (died 1147), a natural son of Henry I., the principal supporter of his sister Matilda and her son Henry in their contest against Stephen for the English throne.—(2)
GILBERT DE CLARE, Earl of Gloucester (1243-95), one of the most influential nobles during the reigns of Henry III. and Edward I. At first he sided with Simon de Montfort, and helped him to gain the battle of Lewes (1264); but, afterwards quarrelling with Simon, he made common cause with Prince Edward and won for him the battle of Evesham (1265).—(3) THOMAS OF WOODSTOCK, Duke of Gloucester (1355-97), the youngest son of Edward III., was from 1386 to 1389 the virtual ruler of the country. He was put to death by Richard II. at Calais in 1397, on the plea that he was plotting against the king.—(4) HUMPHREY, Duke of Gloucester (1391-1447), fourth son of Henry IV., acted as protector of the realm during the minority of Henry VI. He was arrested for high-treason on 18th February 1447, and five days later found dead in bed. He was a patron of learning, but reckless and foolish in his public conduct.—(5) RICHARD, Duke of Gloucester, became King Richard III. (q.v.).—(6) HENRY, Duke of Gloucester (1639-60), third son of Charles I.—(7) WILLIAM, Duke of Gloucester (1689-1700), eldest son of Queen Anne.—(8) WILLIAM HENRY (1743-1805), George III.'s brother, created Duke of Gloucester and Edinburgh in 1764.—(9) His son, WILLIAM FREDERICK (1776-1834).