| Prudence Harding | |
|---|---|
[[Image: | |
| 'Duchess of Cambridge' | |
| Duchess of Cambridge | |
| Born | 14 March 1565 Surrey, England |
| Died | 13 December 1642 (aged 77) Cambridge, England |
| Burial | Henry VIII's Chapel, Westminster Abbey |
| Spouse | John, Duke of Cambridge
m. 1582 |
| Issue | John, 2nd Duke of Cambridge Anne, Duchess of Norfolk |
| House | House of Vasa (by marriage) |
| Father | Richard Harding |
| Mother | Margery Teeny |
| Religion | Anglican |
Prudence Harding was the eldest daughter of the Harding family. Born in a peasant family, she had no reason to have an arranged marriage, so she had the freedom to marry for love. When John, Duke of Cambridge, a nephew to Edward VI, arrived in her village in disguise to visit a local brothel, her brown hair and bright blue eyes captivated him. He changed his plans and spent his time with Prudence. As Prudence tried to return home, John revealed himself and inquired if she would marry him. Although she had no dower, she was accepted by the royal family because of her virtuous nature. She was notably snubbed by the Princess of Wales for being low born. When people called her a social climber Princess Sophia remarked, "If Prudence is a social climber she should've aimed higher and married my brother". Queen Isabella affectionately called her, "Prune".