William de Ros, 6th Baron Ros

William de Ros, born circa 1370, inherited the significant feudal barony and extensive estates of his family, centered in Lincolnshire, upon his father's death in 1394. As the 6th Baron Ros, he was a figure of considerable regional power. His marriage to Margaret FitzAlan, daughter of the influential 1st Baron Arundel, further solidified his connections within the English aristocracy.

The Fitzalan family, like many powerful lineages of the era, harbored deep opposition to the reign of King Richard II. This familial and political alignment likely shaped William's early perceptions and predisposed him towards factions critical of the crown. The late 14th century was characterized by growing dissent and instability, creating a volatile environment where noble allegiances were constantly tested and could have profound consequences for both individuals and the kingdom.

The political crisis of 1399 proved to be a defining moment for William de Ros and for England. When Richard II confiscated the estates of his cousin, Henry Bolingbroke, and exiled him, it set the stage for a dramatic power shift. Bolingbroke's subsequent invasion of England found an immediate supporter in William de Ros.

This was not a passive endorsement; de Ros was present and actively allied with Henry as Richard II surrendered his throne. His participation in the subsequent parliamentary proceedings, including voting for Richard's imprisonment, demonstrated a clear and decisive commitment to the new Lancastrian regime. This bold maneuver positioned de Ros as a key figure in the bloodless revolution that brought Henry IV to power, fundamentally altering the course of English history and William's own standing within it.

The accession of Henry IV ushered in a period of significant advancement for William de Ros. He transitioned from a potentially marginalized figure under Richard II to a trusted confidant and influential counselor to the new king. His role extended beyond mere political support; he actively represented the king's interests in Parliament, acting as a crucial intermediary.

De Ros also demonstrated his loyalty on the battlefield, participating in the Scottish campaign of 1400 and playing a role in suppressing the 1405 rebellion led by Richard Scrope, the Archbishop of York. His service was recognized through substantial royal patronage, including grants of land, wardships, and the lucrative right to arrange marriages for those under his guardianship. Furthermore, de Ros's personal wealth made him a vital financial resource for the crown, which frequently faced economic challenges, highlighting his indispensable role in maintaining royal stability.

Despite his prominence on the national stage, William de Ros was not immune to the endemic local feuds of the period. A notable land dispute in 1411 with a powerful Lincolnshire neighbor led to a near-fatal ambush, from which he narrowly escaped. His subsequent recourse to Parliament for redress underscores his reliance on established legal and political channels.

Intriguingly, a 20th-century historian characterized de Ros as unusually wise and forbearing for his time, citing his restraint in not pursuing the full legal penalties available to him. This suggests a nuanced approach to conflict resolution. The death of Henry IV in 1413 marked a shift.

William's influence waned under Henry V, possibly due to his strong support for Henry IV during the latter's estrangement from his son. William de Ros died at Belvoir Castle on November 1, 1414, leaving a legacy as a pivotal figure in a period of profound political change, known for both his strategic allegiances and his notable restraint.