Boleyns

The Boleyns, sometimes spelled Bolyne, were a noble English family who rose to prominence in the Tudor era. Originating in Norfolk, they became closely associated with Hever Castle in Kent, which served as the family seat for much of the early 16th century.

The most famous members were Thomas Boleyn, later created Earl of Wiltshire and Ormond; his children were Anne Boleyn, Mary Boleyn, and George Boleyn, Viscount Rochford. Anne Boleyn became queen consort of Henry VIII in 1533 and was the mother of Elizabeth I. Mary Boleyn attracted Henry VIII's attention earlier in the decade and remained a figure at court; George Boleyn held high office in the royal household and was named Viscount Rochford.

The Boleyns wielded significant influence at Henry VIII's court, particularly in relation to the king's desire for a divorce from Catherine of Aragon and the broader movement toward the English Reformation. Anne's marriage to Henry and her subsequent fall from favor culminated in her execution in 1536, and George was executed in the same year. The fall of the couple led to the rapid decline of the family's standing; the family's titles were forfeited and the line lost its political influence.

In the years since, the Boleyn name has remained associated with Tudor history. Hever Castle and other estates associated with the family are important historic sites, and the Boleyns figure prominently in studies of the court of Henry VIII and the English Reformation.