Henry de Vere was the 18th Earl of Oxford, born in 1593 and known for his role in the English court during the early 17th century. He was a prominent figure in the Elizabethan and Jacobean periods, serving as a courtier and soldier. His family was part of the English nobility, and he inherited the title from his father. De Vere was also recognized for his contributions to literature and the arts, particularly in the context of Shakespearean studies. Some scholars have speculated about his potential influence on the works of William Shakespeare, although this remains a topic of debate among historians.