Edward Seymour, 1st Duke of Somerset was an English nobleman and politician who lived during the 16th century. Born around 1500, he was the brother of Jane Seymour, the third wife of King Henry VIII. Edward became the Lord Protector for his nephew, King Edward VI, after Henry's death in 1547, effectively ruling England during the young king's minority. As Lord Protector, Somerset implemented several reforms, including the introduction of the English Book of Common Prayer. However, his leadership faced challenges, leading to his downfall in 1549 when he was arrested and later executed in 1552, marking a turbulent period in English history.