Hugh le Despenser

Hugh le Despenser (or Hugh Despenser) was the name of five English lords during the 13th and 14th centuries, in a direct line of descent. The 3rd and 4th of these are by the far the best-known, for their prominent role in the reign of Edward II.

• Sir Hugh le Despenser I (d. 1238)
• Sir Hugh le Despenser II (1223-1265)
• Hugh the elder Despenser (1st Earl of Winchester) (1262–1326)
• Hugh Despenser the younger (1286–1326)

Hugh (c. 1308–1348/9), son of Hugh the younger Despenser, fought at the battles of Sluys and Crécy. He was created a baron by writ of summons to Parliament in 1338 (the titles of his father and grandfather having been forfeited by virtue of the convictions of treason).