The earl of Essex

• Stepson of Robert Dudley, who married his mother
• Robert Devereaux
• Introduced to the queen in 1587
• Although more than 30 years older than him, Elizabeth took an interest
• Made a member of privy council in 1593
• Said to be good looking
• Given a monopoly on sweet wine in 1595
• Anyone imparting sweet wine to England had to pay him tax
• A military hero after success against the Spanish in 1596