Did the Groom of the Stool have any political power?
Frequently Asked Question about the extinct profession: Groom of The Stool
The Groom of the Stool, a position in the English royal court, primarily managed the king's private toilet needs and personal hygiene. While the role was largely ceremonial, it often granted significant influence over the monarch due to close proximity and trust. Some Grooms, like Sir Thomas Heneage, wielded considerable political power, advising the king and participating in court decisions.