Peter Courtenay (died 1552)

Peter Courtenay was a member of the Devon branch of the prominent Courtenay family, a family with significant connections to the English monarchy and nobility. He was a son of Sir William Courtenay of Powderham Castle and Margaret Edgecombe, daughter of Sir Richard Edgecombe.

His career appears to have been largely centered in Devon. He is most notably remembered for his role in the Western Rebellion of 1549, also known as the Prayer Book Rebellion. This uprising, largely fueled by religious grievances and socioeconomic factors, saw significant unrest in the West Country due to the introduction of the Book of Common Prayer. Peter Courtenay initially sided with the rebels, acting as one of their captains.

However, he subsequently switched his allegiance and joined the royal forces against the rebellion. This change in loyalty proved crucial to his survival, as many of the rebel leaders were executed after the rebellion was suppressed. His brother, Sir William Courtenay of Powderham, was imprisoned for his part in the uprising, although he was later released.

Peter Courtenay died in 1552. His decision to abandon the rebellion likely played a significant role in preserving his life and estate, distinguishing him from many others involved in the tumultuous events of 1549.