Chronicle of Geoffrey le Baker of Swinbroke
Baker was a secular clerk from Swinbroke, now Swinbrook, an Oxfordshire village two miles east of Burford. His Chronicle describes the events of the period 1303-1356: Gaveston, Bannockburn, Boroughbridge, the murder of King Edward II, the Scottish Wars, Sluys, Crécy, the Black Death, Winchelsea and Poitiers. To quote Herbert Bruce 'it possesses a vigorous and characteristic style, and its value for particular events between 1303 and 1356 has been recognised by its editor and by subsequent writers'. The book provides remarkable detail about the events it describes. Baker's text has been augmented with hundreds of notes, including extracts from other contemporary chronicles, such as the Annales Londonienses, Annales Paulini, Murimuth, Lanercost, Avesbury, Guisborough and Froissart to enrich the reader's understanding. The translation takes as its source the 'Chronicon Galfridi le Baker de Swynebroke' published in 1889, edited by Edward Maunde Thompson.
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Dukedoms of England Chronologically is in Dukedoms of England.
1362 Edward III Creates two sons as Dukes
1385 Richard II Creates his Two Uncles as Dukes
1397 Richard II Rewards his Supporters
1414 Henry V awards his brothers Dukedoms
1470 Earldom of Northumberland returned to the Percy Family
1483 Richard III Rewards his Supporters
1525 Knighting of Henry Fitzroy
1551 Edward VI's 14th Birthday
1660 July Creation of Peerages
1689 Coronation William III and Mary II
1694 Invitation to William of Orange from the Immortal Seven
See: Duke of Cornwall.
On 17th March 1337 Edward "Black Prince" [aged 6] was created 1st Duke of Cornwall.
In 1351 Henry of Grosmont 1st Duke Lancaster [aged 41] was created 1st Duke Lancaster by King Edward III of England [aged 38]. Isabel Beaumont Duchess Lancaster [aged 31] by marriage Duchess Lancaster.
Lionel of Antwerp 1st Duke of Clarence [aged 12] was created 1st Earl of Ulster.
John of Gaunt 1st Duke Lancaster [aged 10] was created 1st Earl Richmond.
Ralph Stafford 1st Earl Stafford [aged 49] was created 1st Earl Stafford.
On 13th November 1362, his fiftieth birthday, King Edward III of England [aged 50] created two sons as Dukes...
Lionel of Antwerp 1st Duke of Clarence [aged 23] was created 1st Duke Clarence. Elizabeth Burgh Duchess of Clarence [aged 30] by marriage Duchess Clarence.
John of Gaunt 1st Duke Lancaster [aged 22] was created 1st Duke Lancaster. Blanche Duchess of Lancaster [aged 20] by marriage Duchess Lancaster.
On 6th August 1385 Edmund of Langley 1st Duke of York [aged 44] was created 1st Duke York by King Richard II of England [aged 18]. Isabella of Castile Duchess York [aged 30] by marriage Duchess York.
Thomas of Woodstock 1st Duke of Gloucester [aged 30] was created 1st Duke Albemarle, and around the same time, 1st Duke Gloucester. Eleanor Bohun Duchess Gloucester [aged 19] by marriage Duchess Albemarle and Duchess Gloucester.
On 29th September 1397 Henry Bolingbroke [aged 30] was created 1st Duke of Hereford.
On 29th September 1397 King Richard II [aged 30] rewarded his relations with Dukedoms, possibly for their part in downfall of Thomas of Woodstock 1st Duke of Gloucester [deceased], Thomas Beauchamp 12th Earl Warwick [aged 59] and Richard Fitzalan 9th Earl of Surrey 4th or 11th Earl of Arundel [deceased]...
His older half-brother John Holland 1st Duke Exeter [aged 45] was created 1st Duke Exeter. Elizabeth Lancaster Duchess Exeter [aged 34] by marriage Duchess Exeter.
His nephew Thomas Holland 1st Duke Surrey [aged 23] was created 1st Duke Surrey.
His first cousin once-removed Margaret was created 1st Duchess Norfolk - for life only. On the same day her grandson Thomas [aged 29] was also created Duke of Norfolk - see below.
His second cousin once removed Thomas Mowbray 1st Duke of Norfolk was created 1st Duke Norfolk. Elizabeth Fitzalan Duchess Norfolk [aged 31] by marriage Duchess Norfolk.
His first cousin Edward 2nd Duke of York 1st Duke Albemarle [aged 24] was created 1st Duke Albemarle. Beatrice Burgundy Countess Rutland and Cork [aged 24] by marriage Duchess Albemarle.
His illegitimate first cousin John Beaufort 1st Marquess Somerset and Dorset [aged 24] was created 1st Marquess Somerset, 1st Marquess Dorset. Margaret Holland Duchess Clarence [aged 12] by marriage Marchioness Somerset, Marchioness Dorset.
Ralph Neville 1st Earl of Westmoreland [aged 33] was created 1st Earl of Westmoreland. Joan Beaufort Countess of Westmoreland [aged 18] by marriage Countess of Westmoreland.
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On 10th November 1399 King Henry V of England [aged 13] was created 1st Duke Lancaster by King Henry IV of England [aged 32].
In 1412 Thomas Lancaster 1st Duke of Clarence [aged 24] was created 1st Duke Clarence by King Henry IV of England [aged 44]. Margaret Holland Duchess Clarence [aged 27] by marriage Duchess Clarence.
On 16th May 1414 King Henry V of England [aged 27] created Dukedoms for his two brothers:
Humphrey Lancaster 1st Duke Gloucester [aged 23] was created 1st Duke Gloucester, 1st Earl Pembroke.
John Lancaster 1st Duke Bedford [aged 24] was created 1st Duke Bedford, 1st Earl Kendal.
On 18th November 1416 Thomas Beaufort 1st Duke Exeter [aged 39] was created 1st Duke Exeter by King Henry V of England [aged 30] for the remainder of his natural life for 'his service to the king and the realm on both sides of the seas'. At the time the only other dukes were the King's brothers.
In 1433 John Lancaster 1st Duke Bedford [aged 43] was created 1st Duke Bedford. It isn't clear what had happened to the original title? Possibly re-created with a different remainder?
On 28th August 1443 John Beaufort 1st Duke of Somerset [aged 40] was created 1st Duke Somerset, 1st Earl Kendal by King Henry VI of England and II of France [aged 21]. Margaret Beauchamp Duchess Somerset [aged 33] by marriage Duchess Somerset.
In September 1444 Humphrey Stafford 6th Earl Stafford [aged 42] was created 1st Duke of Buckingham by King Henry VI of England and II of France [aged 22] in reward for many years of loyal and continuous service to the Crown. Anne Neville Duchess Buckingham [aged 36] by marriage Duchess of Buckingham.
Chronicle of Abbot Ralph of Coggeshall
The Chronicle of Abbot Ralph of Coggeshall (Chronicon Anglicanum) is an indispensable medieval history that brings to life centuries of English and European affairs through the eyes of a learned Cistercian monk. Ralph of Coggeshall, abbot of the Abbey of Coggeshall in Essex in the early 13th century, continued and expanded his community’s chronicle, documenting events from the Norman Conquest of 1066 into the tumultuous reign of King Henry III. Blending eyewitness testimony, careful compilation, and the monastic commitment to record-keeping, this chronicle offers a rare narrative of political intrigue, royal power struggles, and social upheaval in England and beyond. Ralph’s work captures the reigns of pivotal figures such as Richard I and King John, providing invaluable insights into their characters, decisions, and the forces that shaped medieval rule. More than a simple annal, Chronicon Anglicanum conveys the texture of medieval life and governance, making it a rich source for scholars and readers fascinated by English history, monastic authorship, and the shaping of the medieval world.
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On 14th April 1445 Henry Beauchamp 1st Duke Warwick [aged 20] was created 1st Duke Warwick by his third cousin King Henry VI of England and II of France [aged 23]. Cecily Neville Duchess Warwick [aged 21] by marriage Duchess Warwick.
In 1448 William "Jackanapes" de la Pole 1st Duke of Suffolk [aged 51] was created 1st Duke Suffolk by King Henry VI of England and II of France [aged 26]. Alice Chaucer Duchess Suffolk [aged 44] by marriage Duchess Suffolk.
On 31st March 1448 Edmund Beaufort 1st or 2nd Duke of Somerset [aged 42] was created 1st Duke Somerset. He is sometimes referred to as the 2nd Duke Somerset since his brother John Beaufort 1st Duke of Somerset was the 1st Duke Somerset of the first creation. Edmund didn't inherit the Dukedom from his brother; it was a new creation. His did inherit the Earldom.
After 27th June 1461, the time of his coronation, King Edward IV of England [aged 19] created his brother George [aged 11] 1st Duke Clarence.
On 31st October 1461 King Edward IV of England [aged 19] created his brother Richard [aged 9] 1st Duke Gloucester. Henry Bourchier [aged 57] was created 1st Earl Essex. Isabel of York [aged 52] by marriage Countess Essex. William Neville [aged 56] was created 1st Earl Kent. Joan Fauconberg [aged 55] by marriage Countess Kent.
On 27th March 1470 George Neville 1st Duke Bedford [aged 9] was created 1st Duke Bedford by King Edward IV of England [aged 27] in preparation for his marriage to Elizabeth York Queen Consort England [aged 4] which didn't, in the end, take place. He, George, was nephew to Richard "Kingmaker" Neville Earl Warwick, 6th Earl Salisbury [aged 41] whose defection to the Lancastrian side may have caused the King to change his mind about his daughter's marriage.
In May 1474 Richard of Shrewsbury 1st Duke of York was created 1st Duke York.
On 7th February 1477 Richard of Shrewsbury 1st Duke of York [aged 3] was created 1st Duke Norfolk, 1st Earl Norfolk by his father King Edward IV of England [aged 34] in preparation for his marriage to Anne Mowbray 8th Countess Norfolk [aged 4]. She, Anne, being daughter of the last Duke of Norfolk of the 1st Creation John Mowbray 4th Duke of Norfolk.
In 1478 George York 1st Duke Bedford was created 1st Duke Bedford by King Edward IV of England [aged 35].
On 5th July 1483 John Howard 1st Duke of Norfolk [aged 58] was created 1st Duke Norfolk by King Richard III of England [aged 30]. Margaret Chedworth Duchess Norfolk [aged 47] by marriage Duchess Norfolk.
His son Thomas Howard 2nd Duke of Norfolk [aged 40] was created 1st Earl Surrey. Elizabeth Tilney Countess of Surrey [aged 39] by marriage Countess Surrey.
William Berkeley [aged 57] was created 1st Earl Nottingham.
John Howard 1st Duke of Norfolk and William Berkeley 1st Marquess Berkeley were heirs to the vast Mowbray estates that had been inherited by Anne Mowbray 8th Countess Norfolk who had been married to Richard of Shrewsbury 1st Duke of York [aged 9]. Richard of Shrewsbury's father King Edward IV of England had legislated that in the event of Anne's death his son Richard would continue to benefit from the inheritance; she died in 1481.
Francis Lovell 1st Viscount Lovell [aged 27] was created 1st Viscount Lovell. Anne Fitzhugh Viscountess Lovell by marriage Viscountess Lovell. [Note. Some sources place his created on 01 Jan 1483 although the source for that is unknown.]
On 28th October 1485 Jasper Tudor 1st Duke Bedford [aged 53] was created 1st Duke Bedford by Henry VII [aged 28] for having supported Henry's claim to the throne. Catherine Woodville Duchess Buckingham and Bedford [aged 27] by marriage Duchess Bedford.
Thomas Stanley 1st Earl of Derby [aged 50] was created 1st Earl Derby.
Edward Courtenay 1st Earl Devon [aged 26] was created 1st Earl Devon. It is believed he was restored as 11th Baron Okehampton at the same time?
Reginald Bray [aged 45], John Fitzwalter, Thomas Cokesge, Roger Lewknor, Henry Haydon and John Verney were appointed Knight of the Bath.
In 1494 Henry VIII [aged 2] was created 1st Duke York.
On 21st February 1499 Edmund Tudor 1st Duke of Somerset was born to King Henry VII of England and Ireland [aged 42] and Elizabeth York Queen Consort England [aged 33] at the Palace of Placentia, Greenwich [Map] being their sixth child. On 24th February 1499 he was christened at the Church of the Observant Friars, Greenwich [Map]. His godparents were Margaret Beaufort Countess Richmond [aged 55], Edward Stafford 3rd Duke of Buckingham [aged 21] and Bishop Richard Foxe [aged 51], then Bishop of Durham. He is believed to have been created 1st Duke Somerset on the same day although there is no documentation. He died aged one in 1500.
In 1514 Charles Brandon 1st Duke of Suffolk [aged 30] was created 1st Duke Suffolk by King Henry VIII of England and Ireland [aged 22].
On 18th June 1525 Henry Fitzroy [aged 6] was taken by barge to Bridewell Palace [Map] where he was enobled by his father King Henry VIII of England and Ireland [aged 33].
In the morning Henry Fitzroy was created 1st Earl Nottingham.
In the afternoon Henry Fitzroy was created 1st Duke of Richmond and Somerset.
Henry Percy 5th Earl of Northumberland [aged 47] carried the Sword of State. Thomas More [aged 47] read the patents of nobility. Charles Brandon 1st Duke of Suffolk [aged 41], Thomas Grey 2nd Marquess Dorset [aged 47],
Henry Courtenay [aged 29] was created 1st Marquess Exeter. Gertrude Blount Marchioness of Exeter [aged 22] by marriage Marchioness Exeter.
Henry Clifford [aged 32] was created 1st Earl of Cumberland, Warden of the West Marches and Governor of Carlisle Castle.
Thomas Manners [aged 33] was created 1st Earl of Rutland. Eleanor Paston Countess Rutland [aged 30] by marriage Countess of Rutland. He was given the Earldom of Rutland to reflect his descent from Anne York Duchess Exeter sister of the previous Earl of Rutland. At the same time his arms 
Manners Arms were augmented with the 
Manners Augmented Arms
Henry Brandon [aged 2] was created 1st Earl Lincoln.
Robert Radclyffe [aged 42] was created 1st Viscount Fitzwalter.
Thomas Boleyn 1st Earl Wiltshire and Ormonde [aged 48] was created 1st Viscount Rochford. Elizabeth Howard Countess of Wiltshire and Ormonde [aged 45] by marriage Viscountess Rochford.
Thomas Howard 3rd Duke of Norfolk [aged 52], William Fitzalan 11th or 18th Earl of Arundel [aged 49] and John de Vere 14th Earl of Oxford [aged 25] attended.
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On 16th February 1547, three weeks's after the death of King Henry VIII of England and Ireland [deceased], the new Council promoted themselves...
Thomas Wriothesley 1st Earl of Southampton [aged 41] was created 1st Earl of Southampton in accordance with Henry VIII's will for which he was nominated executor. Jane Cheney Countess Southampton [aged 38] by marriage Countess of Southampton.
Edward Seymour 1st Duke of Somerset [aged 47] was created 1st Duke Somerset. Since he was Protector and head of the Privy Council at the time he effectively created himself Duke. Anne Stanhope Duchess Somerset [aged 50] by marriage Duchess Somerset.
William Willoughby 1st Baron Willoughby of Parham [aged 32] was created 1st Baron Willoughby Parham. Elizabeth Heneage Baroness Willoughby of Parham [aged 29] by marriage Baroness Willoughby Parham.
11th October 1551, the day before his fourteenth birthday, King Edward VI [aged 13] celebrated at Hampton Court Palace [Map] by rewarding his guardians; it may have been a case of his guardians rewarding themselves.
John Dudley 1st Duke Northumberland [aged 47] was created 1st Duke Northumberland. Jane Guildford Duchess Northumberland [aged 42] by marriage Duchess Northumberland. His son Henry Dudley [aged 25] was knighted.
Henry Grey 1st Duke of Suffolk [aged 34] was created 1st Duke Suffolk for having married King Edward VI's first cousin Frances Brandon Duchess of Suffolk [aged 34]. Frances Brandon Duchess of Suffolk by marriage Duchess Suffolk.
William Paulet [aged 68] was created 1st Marquess Winchester. Elizabeth Capell Marchioness Winchester by marriage Marchioness Winchester.
His guardian William Herbert [aged 50] was created 1st Earl Pembroke. Anne Parr Countess Pembroke [aged 36] by marriage Countess Pembroke.
Edward Seymour 1st Duke of Somerset [aged 51], the King's uncle attended.
Henry Dudley was knighted at Hampton Court Palace, Richmond [Map].
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On 5th January 1605 King Charles I of England, Scotland and Ireland [aged 4] was created 1st Duke York and Knight of the Bath by his father King James I of England and Ireland and VI of Scotland [aged 38]
Francis Manners 6th Earl of Rutland [aged 27] and Thomas Somerset 1st Viscount Somerset [aged 26] was @@appointed Knight of the Bath.
In 1623 Ludovic Stewart 2nd Duke Lennox 1st Duke Richmond [aged 48] was created 1st Duke Richmond, 1st Earl Newcastle upon Tyne by King James I of England and Ireland and VI of Scotland [aged 56]. Frances Howard Duchess Lennox and Richmond [aged 44] by marriage Duchess Richmond.
Chronicle of a Bourgeois of Valenciennes
Récits d’un bourgeois de Valenciennes aka The Chronicle of a Bourgeois of Valenciennes is a vivid 14th-century vernacular chronicle written by an anonymous urban chronicler from Valenciennes in the County of Hainaut. It survives in a manuscript that describes local and regional history from about 1253 to 1366, blending chronology, narrative episodes, and eyewitness-style accounts of political, military, and social events in medieval France, Flanders, and the Low Countries. The work begins with a chronological framework of events affecting Valenciennes and its region under rulers such as King Philip VI of France and the shifting allegiances of local nobility. It includes accounts of conflicts, sieges, diplomatic manoeuvres, and the impact of broader struggles like the Hundred Years’ War on urban life in Hainaut. Written from the perspective of a burgher (bourgeois) rather than a monastery or royal court, the chronicle offers a rare lay viewpoint on high politics and warfare, reflecting how merchants, townspeople, and civic institutions experienced the turbulence of the 13th and 14th centuries. Its narrative style combines straightforward reporting of events with moral and civic observations, making it a valuable source for readers interested in medieval urban society, regional politics, and the lived experience of war and governance in pre-modern Europe.
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On 18th May 1623 George Villiers 1st Duke of Buckingham [aged 30] was created 1st Duke of Buckingham by King James I of England and Ireland and VI of Scotland [aged 56] for being his favourite; what favourite means is open to debate. Katherine Manners Duchess Buckingham [aged 21] by marriage Duchess of Buckingham.
On 14th October 1633 James, Duke of York was born to King Charles I of England, Scotland and Ireland [aged 32] and Henrietta Maria Bourbon Queen Consort England [aged 23] at St James's Palace [Map]. He was created 1st Duke York at birth by his father. He married (1) 3rd September 1660 Anne Hyde Duchess of York, daughter of Edward Hyde 1st Earl Clarendon and Frances Aylesbury Countess Clarendon, and had issue (2) 20th September 1673 Mary of Modena Queen Consort England Scotland and Ireland and had issue.
In 1641 James Stewart 4th Duke Lennox 1st Duke Richmond [aged 28] was created 1st Duke Richmond by King Charles I of England, Scotland and Ireland [aged 40]. Mary Villiers Duchess Lennox Duchess Richmond [aged 19] by marriage Duchess Richmond.
In 1644 Prince Rupert Palatinate Simmern 1st Duke Cumberland [aged 24] was created 1st Duke Cumberland, 1st Earl Holderness by King Charles I of England, Scotland and Ireland [aged 43].
On 23rd May 1644 Alice Leigh 1st Duchess Dudley [aged 66] was created 1st Duchess Dudley by King Charles I of England, Scotland and Ireland [aged 43] for life. Her husband Robert Dudley [aged 69] had claimed to be the legitimate son of Robert Dudley 1st Earl of Leicester but the Star Chamber found against him. King Charles I of England, Scotland and Ireland disagreed with their verdict and, in compensation of her subsequent treatment, awarded her the Dukedom... See Patent of Creation.
On 13th May 1659 Henry Stewart 1st Duke Gloucester [aged 18] was created 1st Duke Gloucester, 1st Earl Cambridge by King Charles I of England, Scotland and Ireland.
In July 1660 King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 30] rewarded those who supported his Restoration...
2nd. Maurice Berkeley 3rd Viscount Fitzhardinge [aged 32] was created 1st Baronet Berkeley of Bruton in Somerset. Anne Lee Viscountess Fitzhardinge [aged 37] by marriage Lady Berkeley of Bruton in Somerset.
4th. Thomas Myddelton 1st Baronet [aged 35] was created 1st Baronet Myddelton of Chirk Castle.
6th. Varney Noel 1st Baronet was created 1st Baronet Noel.
7th. George Monck 1st Duke Albemarle [aged 51] was created 1st Duke Albemarle, 1st Earl Torrington in Devon. Anne Clarges Duchess Albermarle [aged 41] by marriage Duchess Albemarle.
12th. Robert Hales 1st Baronet [aged 50] was created 1st Baronet Hales of Beakesbourne in Kent.
12th. Edward Montagu 1st Earl Sandwich [aged 34] was created 1st Earl Sandwich. Jemima Crew Countess Sandwich [aged 35] by marriage Countess Sandwich.
14th. Elizabeth Feilding Countess Guildford was created 1st Countess Guildford by King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland. The peerage for life.
18th. Samuel Morland 1st Baronet [aged 35] was created 1st Baronet Morland of Sulhamstead Banister. Susanne de Milleville Lady Morland by marriage Lady Morland of Sulhamstead Banister.
23rd. Henry Vernon 1st Baronet [aged 55] was created 1st Baronet Vernon of Hodnet in Shropshire.
23rd. John Aubrey 1st Baronet [aged 54] was created 1st Baronet Aubrey of Llantrithyd in Glamorganshire.
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On 14th February 1663 James Scott 1st Duke Monmouth 1st Duke Buccleuch [aged 13] was created 1st Duke Monmouth, 1st Earl Doncaster, 1st Baron Scott of Tynedale by King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 32].
In 1665 William Cavendish 1st Duke Newcastle upon Tyne [aged 72] was created 1st Duke Newcastle upon Tyne by King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 34]. Margaret Lucas Duchess Newcastle upon Tyne [aged 42] by marriage Duchess Newcastle upon Tyne.
In 1666 Charles Stewart 1st Duke Kendal was created 1st Duke Kendal by King Charles I of England, Scotland and Ireland. No patent was ever enrolled
William of Worcester's Chronicle of England
William of Worcester, born around 1415, and died around 1482 was secretary to John Fastolf, the renowned soldier of the Hundred Years War, during which time he collected documents, letters, and wrote a record of events. Following their return to England in 1440 William was witness to major events. Twice in his chronicle he uses the first person: 1. when writing about the murder of Thomas, 7th Baron Scales, in 1460, he writes '… and I saw him lying naked in the cemetery near the porch of the church of St. Mary Overie in Southwark …' and 2. describing King Edward IV's entry into London in 1461 he writes '… proclaimed that all the people themselves were to recognize and acknowledge Edward as king. I was present and heard this, and immediately went down with them into the city'. William’s Chronicle is rich in detail. It is the source of much information about the Wars of the Roses, including the term 'Diabolical Marriage' to describe the marriage of Queen Elizabeth Woodville’s brother John’s marriage to Katherine, Dowager Duchess of Norfolk, he aged twenty, she sixty-five or more, and the story about a paper crown being placed in mockery on the severed head of Richard, 3rd Duke of York.
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On 3rd December 1666 James Stewart 1st Duke Cambridge [aged 3] was created 1st Duke Cambridge by James, Duke of York [aged 33]. See Samuel Pepys' Diary 1666 December 06.
Those present included King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 36], James, Duke of York, Prince Rupert Palatinate Simmern 1st Duke Cumberland [aged 46], William Cecil 2nd Earl Salisbury [aged 75], George Monck 1st Duke Albemarle [aged 57], Thomas Howard 1st Earl Berkshire [aged 79], Charles Stewart 6th Duke Lennox 3rd Duke Richmond [aged 27], Edward Montagu 2nd Earl Manchester [aged 64], James Scott 1st Duke Monmouth 1st Duke Buccleuch [aged 17].
On 7th October 1667 Edgar Stewart 1st Duke Cambridge was created 1st Duke Cambridge by King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 37].
In 1670 Barbara Villiers 1st Duchess of Cleveland [aged 29] was created 1st Duchess Cleveland, 1st Countess of Southampton and 1st Baroness Nonsuch by King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 39] for having given birth to five of his illegitimate children.
On 19th August 1673 Louise Kéroualle 1st Duchess Portsmouth [aged 23] was created 1st Duchess Portsmouth, 1st Countess Fareham, 1st Baroness Petersfield by King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 43] for life for being his mistress and for having given birth to his son Charles Lennox 1st Duke Richmond [aged 1].
In 1675 Charles Fitzroy 1st Duke Southampton 2nd Duke Cleveland [aged 12] was created 1st Duke Southampton, 1st Earl Chichester, 1st Baron Newbury by King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 44].
On 9th August 1675 Charles Lennox 1st Duke Richmond [aged 3] was created 1st Duke Richmond, 1st Earl March, 1st Baron Settrington by King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 45].
On 11th September 1675 Henry Fitzroy 1st Duke Grafton [aged 11] was created 1st Duke Grafton by King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 45]. Isabella Bennet Duchess Grafton [aged 7] by marriage Duchess Grafton.
On 9th November 1682 James Butler 1st Duke Ormonde [aged 72] was created 1st Duke Ormonde by King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 52]. Elizabeth Preston Duchess Ormonde [aged 67] by marriage Duchess Ormonde.
On 2nd December 1682 Henry Somerset 1st Duke Beaufort [aged 53] was created 1st Duke Beaufort by King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 52]. Mary Capell Duchess Beaufort [aged 52] by marriage Duchess Beaufort.
On 6th April 1683 George Fitzroy 1st Duke Northumberland [aged 17] was created 1st Duke Northumberland by King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 52].
On 5th January 1684 Charles Beauclerk 1st Duke St Albans [aged 13] was created 1st Duke St Albans by King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 53].
Jean de Waurin's Chronicle of England Volume 6 Books 3-6: The Wars of the Roses
Jean de Waurin was a French Chronicler, from the Artois region, who was born around 1400, and died around 1474. Waurin’s Chronicle of England, Volume 6, covering the period 1450 to 1471, from which we have selected and translated Chapters relating to the Wars of the Roses, provides a vivid, original, contemporary description of key events some of which he witnessed first-hand, some of which he was told by the key people involved with whom Waurin had a personal relationship.
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In 1687 James Fitzjames 1st Duke Berwick [aged 16] was created 1st Duke Berwick by King James II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 53].
In 1689 Prince George of Denmark 1st Duke Cumberland [aged 35] was created 1st Duke Cumberland by his father-in-law King James II of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 55]. Queen Anne of England Scotland and Ireland [aged 23] by marriage Duchess Cumberland.
In 1689 Frederick Schomberg 1st Duke Schomberg [aged 73] was created 1st Duke Schomberg.
On 9th April 1689 a number of new peers were created at the Coronation William III and Mary II...
Charles Paulet 1st Duke Bolton [aged 59] was created 1st Duke Bolton.
Charles Mordaunt 3rd Earl Peterborough 1st Earl Monmouth [aged 31] was created 1st Earl Monmouth. Carey Fraser Countess Peterborough and Monmouth [aged 29] by marriage Countess Monmouth.
Thomas Belasyse 1st Earl Fauconberg [aged 62] was created 1st Earl Fauconberg. Mary Cromwell Countess Fauconberg [aged 52] by marriage Countess Fauconberg.
William Bentinck 1st Earl of Portland [aged 39] was created 1st Earl of Portland.
In 1694 John Holles 1st Duke Newcastle upon Tyne [aged 31] was created 1st Duke Newcastle upon Tyne. Margaret Cavendish Duchess Newcastle upon Tyne [aged 32] by marriage Duchess Newcastle upon Tyne.
In 1694 William Cavendish 1st Duke Devonshire [aged 53] was created 1st Duke Devonshire by King William III of England, Scotland and Ireland [aged 43] in recognition of William Cavendish 1st Duke Devonshire 1640-1707's support of the Glorious Revolution he having been one of the signatories of the Invitation to William of Orange from the Immortal Seven. Mary Butler Duchess Devonshire [aged 48] by marriage Duchess Devonshire.
In 1694 Thomas Osborne 1st Duke Leeds [aged 61] was created 1st Duke Leeds by King William III of England, Scotland and Ireland [aged 43] in recognition of Thomas Osborne 1st Duke Leeds 1632-1712's support of the Glorious Revolution he having been one of the signatories of the Invitation to William of Orange from the Immortal Seven. Bridget Bertie Duchess Leeds [aged 65] by marriage Duchess Leeds.
On 30th April 1694 Charles Talbot 1st Duke Shrewsbury [aged 33] was created 1st Duke Shrewsbury, 1st Marquess Alton by King William III of England, Scotland and Ireland [aged 43] in recognition of Charles Talbot 1st Duke Shrewsbury 1660-1718's support of the Glorious Revolution he having been one of the signatories of the Invitation to William of Orange from the Immortal Seven.
On 11th May 1694 William Russell 1st Duke Bedford [aged 77] was created 1st Duke Bedford, 1st Marquess Tavistock.
On 13th January 1696 Henry Fitzjames 1st Duke Albemarle [aged 22] was created 1st Duke Albemarle Jacobite.
Anne Boleyn. Her Life as told by Lancelot de Carle's 1536 Letter.
In 1536, two weeks after the execution of Anne Boleyn, her brother George and four others, Lancelot du Carle, wrote an extraordinary letter that described Anne's life, and her trial and execution, to which he was a witness. This book presents a new translation of that letter, with additional material from other contemporary sources such as Letters, Hall's and Wriothesley's Chronicles, the pamphlets of Wynkyn the Worde, the Memorial of George Constantyne, the Portuguese Letter and the Baga de Secrets, all of which are provided in Appendices.
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In December 1702 John Churchill 1st Duke of Marlborough [aged 52] was created 1st Duke Marlborough, 1st Marquess of Blandford. Sarah Jennings Duchess of Marlborough [aged 42] by marriage Duchess Marlborough.
In 1703 John Sheffield 1st Duke of Buckingham and Normanby [aged 54] was created 1st Duke of Buckingham and Normanby. Catherine Greville Duchess Buckingham and Normandby by marriage Duchess of Buckingham and Normanby.
On 29th March 1703 John Manners 1st Duke Rutland [aged 64] was created 1st Duke Rutland, 1st Marquess Grandby. Catherine Noel Duchess Rutland [aged 46] by marriage Duchess Rutland.
In 1705 Ralph Montagu 1st Duke Montagu [aged 66] was created 1st Duke Montagu. Elizabeth "Mad Duchess" Cavendish Duchess Albermarle Duchess of Montagu [aged 50] by marriage Duchess Montagu.
In 1706 King George II of Great Britain and Ireland [aged 22] was created 1st Duke Cambridge. Caroline Hohenzollern Queen Consort England [aged 22] by marriage Duchess Cambridge.
In 1710 Henry Grey 1st Duke Kent [aged 39] was created 1st Duke Kent, 1st Marquess Kent, 1st Viscount Gooderich. Jemima Crew Marchioness Kent [aged 34] by marriage Marchioness Kent.
In 1711 James Hamilton Duke Hamilton, 1st Duke Brandon [aged 52] was created 1st Duke Brandon of Suffolk, 1st Baron Dutton of Cheshire. Elizabeth Gerard Duchess Brandon [aged 31] by marriage Duchess Brandon of Suffolk.
In 1715 Robert Bertie 1st Duke Ancaster and Kesteven [aged 54] was created 1st Duke Ancaster and Kesteven. Albinia Farington Duchess Ancaster and Kesteven by marriage Duchess Ancaster and Kesteven.
The Deeds of the Dukes of Normandy
The Gesta Normannorum Ducum [The Deeds of the Dukes of Normandy] is a landmark medieval chronicle tracing the rise and fall of the Norman dynasty from its early roots through the pivotal events surrounding the Norman Conquest of England. Originally penned in Latin by the monk William of Jumièges shortly before 1060 and later expanded at the behest of William the Conqueror, the work chronicles the deeds, politics, battles, and leadership of the Norman dukes, especially William’s own claim to the English throne. The narrative combines earlier historical sources with firsthand information and oral testimony to present an authoritative account of Normandy’s transformation from a Viking settlement into one of medieval Europe’s most powerful realms. William’s history emphasizes the legitimacy, military prowess, and governance of the Norman line, framing their expansion, including the conquest of England, as both divinely sanctioned and noble in purpose. Later chroniclers such as Orderic Vitalis and Robert of Torigni continued the history, extending the coverage into the 12th century, providing broader context on ducal rule and its impact. Today this classic work remains a foundational source for understanding Norman identity, medieval statesmanship, and the historical forces that reshaped England and Western Europe between 800AD and 1100AD.
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In 1715 Evelyn Pierrepont 1st Duke Kingston upon Hull [aged 60] was created 1st Duke Kingston upon Hull. Isabella Bentinck Duchess Kingston upon Hull [aged 26] by marriage Duchess Kingston upon Hull.
On 11th August 1715 Thomas Pelham Holles 1st Duke Newcastle-under-Lyne [aged 22] was created 1st Duke Newcastle upon Tyne, 1st Marquess Clare with a special remainder to his brother Henry Pelham [aged 20].
In 1716 Philip Wharton 1st Duke Wharton was created 1st Duke Wharton.
In 1716 Henry Bentinck 1st Duke Portland [aged 33] was created 1st Duke Portland. Elizabeth Noel Duchess Portland [aged 28] by marriage Duchess Portland.
On 29th June 1716 Ernest Augustus Hanover 1st Duke of York and Albany [aged 41] was created 1st Duke York and Albany.
In 1719 James Brydges 1st Duke Chandos [aged 45] was created 1st Duke Chandos, 1st Marquess Carnarvon. Cassandra Willoughby Duchess Chandos [aged 48] by marriage Duchess Chandos.
On 19th March 1719 Melusine Schulenburg 1st Duchess Munster 1st Duchess Kendal [aged 51] was created 1st Duchess Kendal, 1st Countess Feversham, 1st Baroness Glastonbury.
In April 1719 John Campbell 2nd Duke Argyll [aged 38] was created 1st Duke of Greenwich.
Jean de Waurin's Chronicle of England Volume 6 Books 3-6: The Wars of the Roses
Jean de Waurin was a French Chronicler, from the Artois region, who was born around 1400, and died around 1474. Waurin’s Chronicle of England, Volume 6, covering the period 1450 to 1471, from which we have selected and translated Chapters relating to the Wars of the Roses, provides a vivid, original, contemporary description of key events some of which he witnessed first-hand, some of which he was told by the key people involved with whom Waurin had a personal relationship.
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On 28th April 1719 Charles Montagu 1st Duke Manchester [aged 57] was created 1st Duke Manchester by King George I [aged 58]. Doddington Greville Duchess Manchester [aged 47] by marriage Duchess Manchester.
In 1720 Lionel Cranfield Sackville 1st Duke Dorset [aged 31] was created 1st Duke Dorset. Elizabeth Colyear Duchess Dorset [aged 31] by marriage Duchess Dorset.
On 18th June 1720 Scroop Egerton 1st Duke Bridgewater [aged 38] was created 1st Duke Bridgewater.
The London Gazette 6494. Whitehall, July 15 [1726].
His Majesty has been pleased to create his Highness Prince Frederick [aged 19], a Baron, Viscount, Earl, Marquess, and Duke of the Kingdom of Great Britain, by the Names Stiles and Titles of Baron of Snaudon in the County of Caernarvon, Viscount of Lanceston in the County of Cornwall, Earl of Eltham in the County of Kent, Marquess of the Isle of Wight [Note. An error for Isle of Ely], and Duke of Edinburgh.
His Majesty has been pleased to create his Highness Prince William [aged 5], a Baron, Viscount, Earl, Marquess, and Duke of the Kingdom of Great Britain, by the Names Stiles and Titles of Baron of the lsle of Alderney, Viscount of Trematon in the Councy of Cornwall, Earl of Kinnington in the County of Surrey, Marquess of Berkhamstead in the County of Hertford, and Duke of Cumberland.
On 17th November 1756 Thomas Pelham Holles 1st Duke Newcastle-under-Lyne [aged 63] was created 1st Duke Newcastle under Lyme with a special remainder to his nephew by marriage Henry Fiennes Pelham-Clinton 2nd Duke Newcastle-under-Lyne [aged 36] husband of his niece Catherine Pelham Countess of Lincoln [aged 29].
On 1st April 1760 Prince Edward Hanover 1st Duke of York [aged 21] was created 1st Duke of York and Albany.
On 19th November 1764 William Henry Hanover 1st Duke Gloucester and Edinburgh [aged 20] was created 1st Duke Gloucester and Edinburgh, 1st Earl Connaught.
In 1766 Hugh Percy 1st Duke Northumberland [aged 50] was created 1st Duke Northumberland. Elizabeth Seymour Duchess Northumberland [aged 49] by marriage Duchess Northumberland.
On 22nd October 1766 Henry Frederick Hanover 1st Duke Cumberland and Strathearn [aged 20] was created 1st Duke Cumberland and Strathearn.
Chronicle of a Bourgeois of Valenciennes
Récits d’un bourgeois de Valenciennes aka The Chronicle of a Bourgeois of Valenciennes is a vivid 14th-century vernacular chronicle written by an anonymous urban chronicler from Valenciennes in the County of Hainaut. It survives in a manuscript that describes local and regional history from about 1253 to 1366, blending chronology, narrative episodes, and eyewitness-style accounts of political, military, and social events in medieval France, Flanders, and the Low Countries. The work begins with a chronological framework of events affecting Valenciennes and its region under rulers such as King Philip VI of France and the shifting allegiances of local nobility. It includes accounts of conflicts, sieges, diplomatic manoeuvres, and the impact of broader struggles like the Hundred Years’ War on urban life in Hainaut. Written from the perspective of a burgher (bourgeois) rather than a monastery or royal court, the chronicle offers a rare lay viewpoint on high politics and warfare, reflecting how merchants, townspeople, and civic institutions experienced the turbulence of the 13th and 14th centuries. Its narrative style combines straightforward reporting of events with moral and civic observations, making it a valuable source for readers interested in medieval urban society, regional politics, and the lived experience of war and governance in pre-modern Europe.
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On 5th November 1766 George Brudenell aka Montagu 1st Duke Montagu [aged 54] was created 1st Duke Montagu. Mary Montagu Duchess of Montagu [aged 55] by marriage Duchess Montagu. He was the son-in-law of the last Duke of the previous creation John Montagu 2nd Duke Montagu.
In 1789 King William IV of the United Kingdom [aged 23] was created 1st Duke Clarence and St Andrews.
In 1799 Ernest Augustus King Hanover [aged 27] was created 1st Duke Cumberland and Teviotdale.
On 24th April 1799 Edward Augustus Hanover 1st Duke Kent and Strathearn [aged 31] was created 1st Duke Kent and Strathearn.
In 1801 Adolphus Hanover 1st Duke Cambridge [aged 26] was created 1st Duke Cambridge.
On 24th November 1801 Prince Augustus Frederick Hanover 1st Duke Sussex [aged 28] was created 1st Duke Sussex. Augusta Murray Duchess Sussex [aged 33] by marriage Duchess Sussex.
On 11th May 1814 Arthur Wellesley 1st Duke Wellington [aged 45] was created 1st Duke Wellington. Catherine "Kitty" Pakenham Duchess Wellington [aged 41] by marriage Duchess Wellington.
In 1822 Richard Temple-Nugent-Brydges-Chandos-Grenville 1st Duke of Buckingham and Chandos [aged 45] was created 1st Duke of Buckingham and Chandos, 1st Marquess of Chandos, 1st Earl Temple of Stowe. The latter title, Earl Temple of Stowe, was created with remainder to his granddaughter Anna Eliza Mary Temple-Nugent-Brydges-Chandos-Grenville [aged 1]. Anne Elizabeth Brydges Duchess Buckingham and Chandos [aged 43] by marriage Duchess of Buckingham and Chandos.
The London Gazette 19103. Whitehall, January 14, 1833.
The King has been pleased to direct letters patent to be passed under the Great Seal, for granting the dignity of Duke of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, unto George Granville Marquess of Stafford [aged 75], Knight of the Most Noble Order of the Garter, and the heirs male of his body lawfully begotten, by the name, stile, and title of Duke of Sutherland, in that part of the said United Kingdom called Scotland. [Note. Elizabeth Sutherland Duchess Sutherland 19th Countess Sutherland [aged 67] by marriage Duchess Sutherland.]
The King has also been pleased to direct letters patent to be passed under the Great Seal, for granting the dignities of Baron and Duke of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, unto William Harry Marquess of Cleveland [aged 66], and the heirs male of his body lawfully begbtten, by the names, stiles, and titles of Baron Raby, of Raby-castle, in the county of Durham, and Duke of Cleveland.
The King has also been pleased to direct letters patent to be passed under the Great Seal, granting the dignity of a Baron of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, unto Charles Callis Western [aged 65], Esq. and the heirs male of his body lawfully begotten, by the name, stile, and title of Baron Western, of Rivenhall, in the county of Essex.
In 1874 Hugh Lupus Grosvenor 1st Duke Westminster [aged 48] was created 1st Duke Westminster. Constance Leveson-Gower Duchess Westminster [aged 39] by marriage Duchess Westminster.
Chronicle of Walter of Guisborough
A canon regular of the Augustinian Guisborough Priory, Yorkshire, formerly known as The Chronicle of Walter of Hemingburgh, describes the period from 1066 to 1346. Before 1274 the Chronicle is based on other works. Thereafter, the Chronicle is original, and a remarkable source for the events of the time. This book provides a translation of the Chronicle from that date. The Latin source for our translation is the 1849 work edited by Hans Claude Hamilton. Hamilton, in his preface, says: 'In the present work we behold perhaps one of the finest samples of our early chronicles, both as regards the value of the events recorded, and the correctness with which they are detailed; Nor will the pleasing style of composition be lightly passed over by those capable of seeing reflected from it the tokens of a vigorous and cultivated mind, and a favourable specimen of the learning and taste of the age in which it was framed.'
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On 24th May 1874 Prince Arthur Windsor 1st Duke Connaught and Strathearn [aged 24] was created 1st Duke Connaught and Strathearn. Luise Margarete Hohenzollern Duchess Connaught [aged 13] by marriage Duchess Connaught and Strathearn.
In 1892 King George V of the United Kingdom [aged 26] was created 1st Duke York.
In 1920 King George VI of the United Kingdom [aged 24] was created 1st Duke York.
On 31st March 1928 Henry Windsor 1st Duke Gloucester [aged 28] was created 1st Duke Gloucester.
On 9th October 1934 Prince George Windsor 1st Duke Kent [aged 31] was created 1st Duke Kent.
In 1986 Prince Andrew Windsor 1st Duke of York [aged 25] was created 1st Duke York.
In 2011 William Prince of Wales [aged 28] was created 1st Duke Cambridge.