Somerset, Edward Seymour, 1st Duke of Somerset (c. 1506–1552)

English politician. Created Earl of Hertford after Henry VIII's marriage to his sister Jane, he became Duke of Somerset and protector (regent) for Edward VI in 1547. His attempt to check enclosure (the transfer of land from common to private ownership) offended landowners and his moderation in religion upset the Protestants. Knighted in 1523, viscount in 1536, earl in 1537, he was eventually beheaded on a treason charge in 1552.