Name

Thomas Stanley, 2nd Earl of Derby

Biography

The first Lord of Mann to adopt the lesser title, replacing King with Lord. Two explanations: political prudence after the Wars of the Roses, or a gesture of submission — 'it is not fit for a King to be subject to any but the KING of KINGS.' The title change was not made on the Island, not ratified by the estates, not discussed at the hill. It was made in England, for English reasons. The kingly title lingered despite the change — as late as 1532, the 3rd Earl still styled himself 'Soveraigne and liege Lord.'

Active Period

c.1485–1521

Also Known As

2nd Earl of Derby

Place

Lathom, Lancashire

Isle of Man

Family / Group

The Stanley Dynasty

Period

Stanley Lordship

Role / Office

Lord of Mann

Earl of Derby

Book Chapter

Chapter 3