The son of Sir John, Edward was Squire of the Body to King Henry VIII.
Edward's sister, Jane, married King Henry VIII. Edward fought in Scotland and France and, as the Earl of Hertford became a member of the council of regency which was formed on the accession of King Edward VI.
He was elected Lord Protector, won the battle of Musselburgh and reformed the church to some extent. He also tried to stop the enclosure of common lands. Edward conducted foreign affairs badly and this enabled his rival the Duke of Northumberland to secure his downfall and execution in 1552. The title was supressed.
see also; THE DUKES OF SOMERSET