Robert Rich, 1st Earl of Warwick


Robert Rich, 3rd Baron Rich, 1st Earl of Warwick, was an English nobleman, known as Baron Rich between 1581 and 1618, when he was created Earl of Warwick. He was the first husband of Penelope Devereux, whom he divorced in 1605 on the grounds of her adultery.

Origins

Rich was the son and heir of Robert Rich, 2nd Baron Rich by his wife Elizabeth Baldry, a daughter of George Baldry. He was the grandson of Richard Rich, 1st Baron Rich, the progenitor of the powerful Rich family.

Career

Rich succeeded his father in the barony in 1581. In 1618 he was created Earl of Warwick.

Marriages and progeny

He married twice:
He died in March 1619, aged 59, and was succeeded in the earldom by his eldest son Robert Rich, 2nd Earl of Warwick.