Who was Bess of Hardwick

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Bess of Hardwick was a prominent English noblewoman and courtier during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. She was one of the richest and most powerful women in England during the late 16th century, and she was known for her intelligence, her political savvy, and her ambitious nature.

Born in 1527, Bess was the daughter of John Hardwick, a landowner and courtier. She was well-educated and was fluent in several languages. She married four times and had a total of eight children.

Bess’s first husband was Robert Barlow, a landowner and courtier. The marriage was short-lived, and Bess was widowed at the age of 19. She married her second husband, Sir William Cavendish, in 1547. The marriage was a successful one, and the couple had four children together.

Bess was a close friend and confidant of Queen Elizabeth I, and she served as a lady-in-waiting to the queen. She was involved in many important political decisions and was known for her intelligence and her ability to get things done.

Bess was also a successful businesswoman and was one of the richest women in England. She owned several properties and was involved in a number of profitable ventures. She was also an avid collector of art and books and was known for her passion for learning.

Bess of Hardwick was a major figure in English history. She was one of the most powerful and influential women of her time and was known for her intelligence, her political savvy, and her ambitious nature. She died in 1608, at the age of 81.