Thomas Holland, Duke of Surrey

He was the son of Thomas Holland, 2nd Earl of Kent and Alice Fitzalan, daughter of Richard Fitzalan, 5th Earl of Arundel. He was also grand-nephew of Richard II of England. On his father's death in 1397 Holland became 3rd Earl of Kent, and was elected a Knight of the Garter. At that time Richard II was removing from power Thomas of Woodstock, Duke of Gloucester, and his associates, and sent Holland to arrest Holland's uncle Thomas Fitzalan, Earl of Arundel. In reward he received a share of the forfeited estates, and on September 29 was created Duke of Surrey. His uncle John Holland was created Duke of Exeter on that day as well.

Holland, along with many of Richard's advisors, was arrested after Richard's deposal by Henry IV. In the end he had to forfeit the honors and estates he had gained after the arrests of Gloucester and Arundel, and thus went back to just being Earl of Kent.

Early in 1400 Holland, along with his uncle John (now Earl of Huntingdon instead of Duke of Exeter) plotted to kill Henry IV and free Richard II from prison and return him to the throne. The plot failed and Holland was captured and executed.

He left no children by his wife, Joan, daughter of Hugh, Earl of Stafford. He was succeeded as earl by his brother Edmund Holland, 4th Earl of Kent.