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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18 Feb is in February.
18th February 1478 Execution of George Duke of Clarence
1504 Henry Tudor created Prince of Wales
1653 Three Days' Battle aka Battle of Portland
Chronicum Anglicanum by Ralph Coggeshall. Pope Urban died, and he was succeeded by Gregory the chancellor, who was also called Master Albert, who held the papacy scarcely for two months, and was buried at Pisa; he was succeeded by Pope Clement. Gilbert Foliot1, bishop of London, also died.
Obiit Urbanus papa, cui successit Gregorius cancellarius, qui et magister Albertus dictus est, qui vix per duos menses papatum tenuit, et sepultus est apud Pise, cui successit Clemens papa. Obiit Gilebertus Foliot, Londoniensis episcopus.
Note 1. Bishop Gilbert Foliot, consecrated Bishop of Hereford in 1148, translated to London 1163, died 18th February 1187.
On 18th February 1238 Henry Otto Hohenstaufen was born to Frederick I King Jerusalem II Holy Roman Emperor (age 43) and Isabella Plantagenet Holy Roman Empress (age 24). He a grandson of King John of England.
On 18th February 1391 Marie Montfort Duchess Alençon was born to John Montfort V Duke Brittany (age 52) and Joanna of Navarre Queen Consort England (age 21). She a great x 3 granddaughter of King Henry III of England. She married 1396 her second cousin twice removed John Valois I Duke Alençon, son of Peter Valois II Count Alençon and Marie Chamaillart Countess Alençon, and had issue.
On 18th February 1397 Enguerrand de Coucy 1st Earl Bedford 1st Count Soissons (age 57) died whilst a prisoner following the Battle of Nicopolis without male issue. Earl Bedford extinct. His daughter Marie (age 30) succeeded Countess Soissons.
On 18th February 1478 George York 1st Duke of Clarence (age 28) was drowned in a butt of wine (Malmsey) wine in the Bowyer Tower in the Tower of London [Map]. "in a butt of Malmsey wine" may refer to 1. a butt full of Malmsey wine or 2. a butt that once contained Malmsey wine that was subsequently re-used for another purpose such as washing or bathing.
William Hussey (age 35) conducted the impeachment of the Duke of Clarence for treason.
Richard, Duke of Gloucester (age 25) succeeded 2nd Earl Richmond.
The only other person known to have been executed, or ritually killed, by drowning in a butt of wine is Muirchertach mac Muiredaig High King of Ireland (as reported by the Annals of Ulster) in his case at Newgrange Passage Tomb [Map].
On 18th February 1504 Henry VIII (age 12) was created Prince of Wales and 1st Earl Chester. John Mordaunt 1st Baron Mordaunt (age 24) was created Knight of the Bath. Richard Empson (age 54) was knighted.
On 18th February 1516 Queen Mary I of England and Ireland was born to Henry VIII (age 24) and Catherine of Aragon (age 30) at Palace of Placentia, Greenwich [Map]. Margaret Bourchier 1st Baroness Bryan (age 48) was created 1st Baroness Bryan and appointed the child's governess. Catherine York Countess Devon (age 36) was her godmother. She married 25th July 1554 her first cousin once removed Philip "The Prudent" II King Spain, son of Charles V Holy Roman Emperor and Isabel Aviz Queen Consort Spain.
On 18th February 1520 Carlos Aviz was born to Manuel "Fortunate" I King Portugal (age 50) and Eleanor of Austria Queen Consort France Queen Consort Portugal (age 21). Coefficient of inbreeding 7.55%. He died aged one in 1521.
On 18th February 1528 Piers "Red" Butler 8th Earl Ormonde 1st Earl Ossory (age 61) resigned their claim to the Ormonde inheritance since King Henry VIII of England and Ireland (age 36) wanted the titles for Thomas Boleyn 1st Earl Wiltshire and Ormonde (age 51) to whom they were subsequently granted.
On 18th February 1543 Charles "The Great" Lorraine III Duke Lorraine was born to Francis Lorraine I Duke Lorraine (age 25) and Christina Oldenburg Duchess Lorraine (age 21). He married 1559 his fourth cousin Claude Valois Duchess Lorraine, daughter of King Henry II of France and Catherine Medici Queen Consort France, and had issue.
Henry Machyn's Diary. 18th February 1561. The iij yere of quen Elezabeth (age 27) the xviij day of [February] was sant Gorge fest; how all the knyghtes of the garter stod that day in order, the furst
On the Quen['s side.]
The kyng Phelype (age 33).
The constabulle of France (age 67).
The yerle of Arundell (age 48).
The yerle of Darbe (age 51).
The duke of Northfoke (age 24).
The lord Pagett (age 55).
The yerle of Westmerland (age 36).
The lord chamburlayn, Haward (age 51).
The yerle of Shrowsbere (age 33)
The lord Montyguw-Browne (age 32).
The lord Gray of Wyltun (age 52).
On the Emperowre('s) syd.
The emperowre Ferna[ndo.] (age 57)
The prynse of Pyamont (age 32).
The duke Vanholtt (age 35).
The markes of Wynchester, tresorer (age 78).
The yerle of Penbroke (age 60).
The lord admerall Clynton (age 49).
The maques of Northamtun-Pare (age 49).
The yerle of Rutland-Rosse (age 34).
The yerle of Sussex (age 36).
The lord of Lugborow (age 40).
The lord Robart Dudley (age 28).
The lord of Hunsdon-Care (age 34).
On 18th February 1598 Admiral Clement Paston (age 77) died. Tomb in the Church of St Michael, Oxnead [Map]. Rush Mat.
Admiral Clement Paston: Around 1521 he was born to William Paston and Bridget Heydon. Before 18th February 1598 Admiral Clement Paston and Alice Pakington were married.
Annals of the six Kings of England by Nicholas Trivet
Translation of the Annals of the Six Kings of England by that traces the rise and rule of the Angevin aka Plantagenet dynasty from the mid-12th to early 14th century. Written by the Dominican scholar Nicholas Trivet, the work offers a vivid account of English history from the reign of King Stephen through to the death of King Edward I, blending political narrative with moral reflection. Covering the reigns of six monarchs—from Stephen to Edward I—the chronicle explores royal authority, rebellion, war, and the shifting balance between crown, church, and nobility. Trivet provides detailed insight into defining moments such as baronial conflicts, Anglo-French rivalry, and the consolidation of royal power under Edward I, whose reign he describes with particular immediacy. The Annals combines careful year-by-year reporting with thoughtful interpretation, presenting history not merely as a sequence of events but as a moral and political lesson. Ideal for readers interested in medieval history, kingship, and the origins of the English state, this chronicle remains a valuable and accessible window into the turbulent world of the Plantagenet kings.
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Diary of Anne Clifford. 18th February 1616. Next day was a marvellous day to me through the mercy of Gop, for it was generally thought that I must either have sealed to the argument or else have parted with my Lord (age 26).
After 18th February 1646. Brass at St Laurence's Church, Ludlow [Map] to Frances, the wife of Henry Mello [?] of Ludlow, who died on 18 Feb 1646 aged twenty-six.
The Three Days' Battle aka Battle of Portland took place between 18th and 20th February 1653. The English fleet was attacked by the Dutch fleet.
Vice-Admiral William Goodson captained the Entrance.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 18th February 1660. Saturday. A great while at my vial and voice, learning to sing "Fly boy, fly boy", without book. So to my office, where little to do. In the Hall I met with Mr. Eglin and one Looker, a famous gardener, servant to my Lord Salsbury (age 68), and among other things the gardener told a strange passage in good earnest.... Home to dinner, and then went to my Lord's lodgings to my turret there and took away most of my books, and sent them home by my maid. Thither came Capt. Holland to me who took me to the Half Moon tavern [Map] and Mr. Southorne, Blackburne's clerk. Thence he took me to the Mitre in Fleet Street, where we heard (in a room over the music room) very plainly through the ceiling. Here we parted and I to Mr. Wotton's, and with him to an alehouse and drank while he told me a great many stories of comedies that he had formerly seen acted, and the names of the principal actors, and gave me a very good account of it. Thence to Whitehall, where I met with Luellin and in the clerk's chamber wrote a letter to my Lord. So home and to bed. This day two soldiers were hanged in the Strand [Map] for their late mutiny at Somerset-house [Map].
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 18th February 1664. Called up to the office and much against my will I rose, my head aching mightily, and to the office, where I did argue to good purpose for the King (age 33), which I have been fitting myself for the last night against Mr. Wood about his masts, but brought it to no issue. Very full of business till noon, and then with Mr. Coventry (age 36) to the African House, and there fell to my Lord Peterborough's (age 42) accounts, and by and by to dinner, where excellent discourse, Sir G. Carteret (age 54) and others of the African Company with us, and then up to the accounts again, which were by and by done, and then I straight home, my head in great pain, and drowsy, so after doing a little business at the office I wrote to my father about sending him the mastiff was given me yesterday. I home and by daylight to bed about 6 o'clock and fell to sleep, wakened about 12 when my wife came to bed, and then to sleep again and so till morning, and then:
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 4th March 1664. Up, my eye being pretty well, and then by coach to my Lord Sandwich (age 38), with whom I spoke, walking a good while with him in his garden, which and the house is very fine, talking of my Lord Peterborough's (age 42) accounts, wherein he is concerned both for the foolery as also inconvenience which may happen upon my Lord Peterborough's ill-stating of his matters, so as to have his gaine discovered unnecessarily. We did talk long and freely that I hope the worst is past and all will be well. There were several people by trying a new-fashion gun1 brought my Lord this morning, to shoot off often, one after another, without trouble or danger, very pretty.
Note 1. Many attempts to produce a satisfactory revolver were made in former centuries, but it was not till the present one that Colt's revolver was invented. On February 18th, 1661, Edward, Marquis of Worcester (age 58), obtained Letters Patent for "an invencon to make certeyne guns or pistolls which in the tenth parte of one minute of an houre may, with a flaske contrived to that purpose, be re-charged the fourth part of one turne of the barrell which remaines still fixt, fastening it as forceably and effectually as a dozen thrids of any scrue, which in the ordinary and usual way require as many turnes". On March 3rd, 1664, Abraham Hill obtained Letters Patent for a "gun or pistoll for small shott, carrying seaven or eight charges of the same in the stocke of the gun"..
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 18th February 1665. Up, and to the office, where sat all the morning; at noon to the 'Change [Map], and thence to the Royall Oake taverne in Lombard Street, where Sir William Petty (age 41) and the owners of the double-bottomed boat (The Experiment) did entertain my Lord Brunkard (age 45), Sir R. Murrey, myself, and others, with marrow bones and a chine of beefe of the victuals they have made for this ship; and excellent company and good discourse: but, above all, I do value Sir William Petty.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 18th February 1665. So home, and till almost one o'clock in the morning at my office, and then home to supper and to bed. My Lord Sandwich (age 39), and his fleete of twenty-five ships in the Downes, returned from cruising, but could not meet with any Dutchmen.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 18th February 1665. Thence home; and took my Lord Sandwich's (age 39) draught of the harbour of Portsmouth, Hampshire [Map] down to Ratcliffe, to one Burston, to make a plate for the King (age 34), and another for the Duke (age 31), and another for himself; which will be very neat.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 18th February 1666. After dinner they gone, and it being a brave day, I walked to White Hall, where the Queene (age 56) and ladies are all come: I saw some few of them, but not the Queene, nor any of the great beauties. I endeavoured to have seen my Lord Hinchingbrooke (age 18), who come to town yesterday, but I could not.
Samuel Pepys' Diary. 18th February 1668. Up by break of day, and walked down to the old Swan [Map], where I find little Michell building, his booth being taken down, and a foundation laid for a new house, so that that street is like to be a very fine place. I drank, but did not see Betty, and so to Charing Cross [Map] stairs, and thence walked to Sir W. Coventry's (age 40)1, and talked with him, who tells me how he hath been persecuted, and how he is yet well come off in the business of the dividing of the fleete, and the sending of the letter. He expects next to be troubled about the business of bad officers in the fleete, wherein he will bid them name whom they call bad, and he will justify himself, having never disposed of any but by the Admiral's liking. And he is able to give an account of all them, how they come recommended, and more will be found to have been placed by the Prince and Duke of Albemarle (age 59) than by the Duke of York (age 34) during the war, and as no bad instance of the badness of officers he and I did look over the list of commanders, and found that we could presently recollect thirty-seven commanders that have been killed in actuall service this war. He tells me that Sir Fr. Hollis (age 25) is the main man that hath persecuted him hitherto, in the business of dividing the fleete, saying vainly that the want of that letter to the Prince hath given him that, that he shall remember it by to his grave, meaning the loss of his arme; when, God knows! he is as idle and insignificant a fellow as ever come into the fleete. He tells me that in discourse on Saturday he did repeat Sir Rob. Howard's (age 42) words about rowling out of counsellors, that for his part he neither cared who they rowled in, nor who they rowled out, by which the word is become a word of use in the House, the rowling out of officers. I will remember what, in mirth, he said to me this morning, when upon this discourse he said, if ever there was another Dutch war, they should not find a Secretary; "Nor", said I, "a Clerk of the Acts, for I see the reward of it; and, thanked God! I have enough of my own to buy me a good book and a good fiddle, and I have a good wife";-"Why", says he, "I have enough to buy me a good book, and shall not need a fiddle, because I have never a one of your good wives". I understand by him that we are likely to have our business of tickets voted a miscarriage, but (he) cannot tell me what that will signify more than that he thinks they will report them to the King (age 37) and there leave them, but I doubt they will do more.
Note 1. Sir William Coventry's love of money is said by Sir John Denham (age 53) to have influenced him in promoting naval officers, who paid him for their commissions. "Then Painter! draw cerulian Coventry Keeper, or rather Chancellor o' th' sea And more exactly to express his hue, Use nothing but ultra-mariuish blue. To pay his fees, the silver Trumpet spends, And boatswain's whistle for his place depends. Pilots in vain repeat their compass o'er, Until of him they learn that one point more The constant magnet to the pole doth hold, Steel to the magnet, Coventry to gold. Muscovy sells us pitch, and hemp, and tar; Iron and copper, Sweden; Munster, war; Ashley, prize; Warwick, custom; Cart'ret, pay; But Coventry doth sell the fleet away". B.
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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John Evelyn's Diary. 18th February 1678. My Lord Treasurer (age 45) sent for me to accompany him to Wimbledon, which he had lately purchased of the Earl of Bristol (age 44); so breaking fast with him privately in his chamber, I accompanied him with two of his daughters, my Lord Conway (age 55), and Sir Bernard Gascoyne (age 64); and, having surveyed his gardens and alterations, returned late at night.
On 18th February 1679 William Courtenay 5th Earl Devon (age 50) was elected MP Devon.
On 18th February 1680 John Ernest Saxe Coburg Saalfeld IV Duke Saxe Coburg Saalfeld (age 21) and Sophie Hedwig Saxe Merseburg Duchess Saxe Coburg Saalfeld were married at Merseburg, Saxony-Anhalt. She by marriage Duchess Saxe Coburg Saalfeld. She the daughter of Christian Saxe Merseburg 1st Duke Saxe Merseburg. He the son of Ernest "The Pious" Saxe Gotha I Duke Saxe Gotha and Elisabeth Sophie Saxe Altenburg Duchess Saxe Gotha (age 60).
On 18th February 1692 Philippe Bourbon II Duke Orléans (age 17) and Françoise Marie Bourbon Duchess Orléans (age 15) were married at Palace of Versailles, Versailles. She by marriage Duchess Orléans. She the illegitmate daughter of Louis "Sun King" XIV King France (age 53) and Françoise Athénaïs Marquise Montespan (age 51). He the son of Philip Bourbon I Duke Orléans (age 51) and Elizabeth Charlotte Palatinate Simmern Duchess Orléans (age 39). They were first cousins. He a great x 2 grandson of King James I of England and Ireland and VI of Scotland.
On 12th February 1712 Maria Adelaide Savoy (age 26) died of measles at Versailles.
On 18th February 1712 Louis Bourbon Duke Burgundy (age 29) died of measles contracted when nursing his wife Maria Adelaide Savoy who had died six days previously.
On 8th March 1712, their eldest son, heir to the throne, Louis Bourbon Duke Brittany (age 5) died of measles.
The heir to the French throne their only remaining son Louis (age 1), aged two, great-grandson of the reigning monarch Louis "Sun King" XIV King France (age 73) who succeeded his great-grandfather three years later in 1715.
On 18th February 1751 Adolf Ulrik Wertmüller was born.
On 18th February 1755 James Hamilton 7th Duke Hamilton 4th Duke Brandon was born to James Hamilton 6th Duke Hamilton 3rd Duke Brandon (age 30) and Elizabeth Gunning Duchess Hamilton and Argyll (age 21) at Holyrood Palace, Holyrood.
On 18th February 1775 Thomas Girtin was born.
On 18th February 1790 Duchess Elisabeth of Württemberg (age 22) died in childbirth.
On 18th February 1802 Adolphus Fitz-Clarence was born illegitimately to King William IV of the United Kingdom (age 36) and Dorothea Bland aka "Mrs Jordan" (age 40).
On 18th February 1808 James Thomas Loraine (age 54) died. He was buried at St Wilfrid's Church, Kirkharle [Map].
James Thomas Loraine: On 1st December 1753 he was born to Charles Loraine 3rd Baronet and Dorothy Myloyt. He was baptised on 14th April 1813 at St Wilfrid's Church, Kirkharle [Map].
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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Minutes of the Society of Antiquaries. 18th February 1819. Mr Kirk Patrick brought the seals of all of the Bishops of Norwich curiously drawn by himself from the originals which he designs for the Press.
Mr Vertue was ordered to print off 100 more of Rich: II, and 100 more of the Lamp; and he is desired to add the Inscription according to the Copy delivered to him if Mr Director approves of it.
On 18th February 1843 George V King Hanover (age 23) and Marie Saxe Altenburg Queen Consort Hanover were married. He the son of Ernest Augustus King Hanover (age 71) and Frederica Mecklenburg Strelitz Queen Consort Hanover.
On 18th February 1856 Henry Charles Howard 13th Duke of Norfolk (age 64) died. His son Henry (age 41) succeeded 14th Duke Norfolk, 25th or 32nd Earl Arundel, 15th Earl Surrey, 12th Earl Norfolk, 22nd Baron Maltravers, 22nd Baron Arundel.
On 16th October 1859 John Fane 11th Earl of Westmoreland (age 75) died. His son Francis (age 33) succeeded 12th Earl of Westmoreland. Adelaide Ida Curzon Howe Countess of Westmoreland (age 24) by marriage Countess of Westmoreland.
On 18th February 1879 Priscilla Anne Wellesley-Pole Countess of Westmoreland (age 85) died. Both were buried at the Church of St Leonard, Apethorpe [Map].
John Fane 11th Earl of Westmoreland: On 2nd February 1784 he was born to John Fane 10th Earl of Westmoreland and Sarah Anne Child Countess of Westmoreland. On 26th June 1811 John Fane 11th Earl of Westmoreland and Priscilla Anne Wellesley-Pole Countess of Westmoreland were married. She the daughter of William Wellesley aka Wellesley-Pole 3rd Earl Mornington and Katherine Forbes Countess Mornington. He the son of John Fane 10th Earl of Westmoreland and Sarah Anne Child Countess of Westmoreland. On 15th December 1841 John Fane 10th Earl of Westmoreland died. His son John succeeded 11th Earl of Westmoreland. Priscilla Anne Wellesley-Pole Countess of Westmoreland by marriage Countess of Westmoreland.
Priscilla Anne Wellesley-Pole Countess of Westmoreland: On 13th March 1793 she was born to William Wellesley aka Wellesley-Pole 3rd Earl Mornington and Katherine Forbes Countess Mornington.
On 18th February 1860 Anders Zorn was born.
On 18th February 1878 a double Royal Wedding took place at Berlin. The brides were second-cousins.
Bernhard Saxe Meiningen III Duke Saxe Meiningen (age 26) and Charlotte Hohenzollern (age 17) were married. She the daughter of Frederick III King Prussia (age 46) and Victoria Empress Germany Queen Consort Prussia (age 37). He the son of Georg II Duke of Saxe Meiningen (age 51). They were third cousin twice removed. She a granddaughter of Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom.
Frederick Augustus II Grand Duke of Oldenburg (age 25) and Elisabeth Anna Hohenzollern (age 21) were married. They were fifth cousins.
The event was attended by King Leopold II of Belgium (age 42) and his wife Marie Henriette of Austria, and the Prince of Wales (age 36) and his brother Prince Arthur Windsor 1st Duke Connaught and Strathearn (age 27).
On 18th February 1940 Francis Egerton 7th Duke Sutherland was born to Cyril Reginald Egerton (age 34).
On 18th February 1944 Commander John Montagu Granville Waldegrave (age 38) was killed in action when the Penelope was torpedoed by U-410 while returning from Anzio.
On 18th February 1969 Georgia Powell Duchess of Beaufort was born to Tristram Roger Dymoke Powell (age 28). She married 30th April 2018 Henry John Fitzroy 12th Duke of Beaufort, son of David Fitzroy 11th Duke Beaufort and Caroline Jane Thynne 11th Duchess Beaufort.
On 18th February 1238 Henry Otto Hohenstaufen was born to Frederick I King Jerusalem II Holy Roman Emperor (age 43) and Isabella Plantagenet Holy Roman Empress (age 24). He a grandson of King John of England.
On 18th February 1391 Marie Montfort Duchess Alençon was born to John Montfort V Duke Brittany (age 52) and Joanna of Navarre Queen Consort England (age 21). She a great x 3 granddaughter of King Henry III of England. She married 1396 her second cousin twice removed John Valois I Duke Alençon, son of Peter Valois II Count Alençon and Marie Chamaillart Countess Alençon, and had issue.
On 18th February 1516 Queen Mary I of England and Ireland was born to Henry VIII (age 24) and Catherine of Aragon (age 30) at Palace of Placentia, Greenwich [Map]. Margaret Bourchier 1st Baroness Bryan (age 48) was created 1st Baroness Bryan and appointed the child's governess. Catherine York Countess Devon (age 36) was her godmother. She married 25th July 1554 her first cousin once removed Philip "The Prudent" II King Spain, son of Charles V Holy Roman Emperor and Isabel Aviz Queen Consort Spain.
On 18th February 1520 Carlos Aviz was born to Manuel "Fortunate" I King Portugal (age 50) and Eleanor of Austria Queen Consort France Queen Consort Portugal (age 21). Coefficient of inbreeding 7.55%. He died aged one in 1521.
Adam Murimuth's Continuation and Robert of Avesbury’s 'The Wonderful Deeds of King Edward III'
This volume brings together two of the most important contemporary chronicles for the reign of Edward III and the opening phases of the Hundred Years’ War. Written in Latin by English clerical observers, these texts provide a vivid and authoritative window into the political, diplomatic, and military history of fourteenth-century England and its continental ambitions. Adam Murimuth Continuatio's Chronicarum continues an earlier chronicle into the mid-fourteenth century, offering concise but valuable notices on royal policy, foreign relations, and ecclesiastical affairs. Its annalistic structure makes it especially useful for establishing chronology and tracing the development of events year by year. Complementing it, Robert of Avesbury’s De gestis mirabilibus regis Edwardi tertii is a rich documentary chronicle preserving letters, treaties, and official records alongside narrative passages. It is an indispensable source for understanding Edward III’s claim to the French crown, the conduct of war, and the mechanisms of medieval diplomacy. Together, these works offer scholars, students, and enthusiasts a reliable and unembellished account of a transformative period in English and European history. Essential for anyone interested in medieval chronicles, the Hundred Years’ War, or the reign of Edward III.
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On 18th February 1543 Charles "The Great" Lorraine III Duke Lorraine was born to Francis Lorraine I Duke Lorraine (age 25) and Christina Oldenburg Duchess Lorraine (age 21). He married 1559 his fourth cousin Claude Valois Duchess Lorraine, daughter of King Henry II of France and Catherine Medici Queen Consort France, and had issue.
On 18th February 1609 Edward Hyde 1st Earl Clarendon was born to Henry Hyde (age 46) and Mary Langford. He married (1) 1629 Anne Ayloffe (2) 1634 Frances Aylesbury Countess Clarendon, daughter of Thomas Aylesbury 1st Baronet and Anne Denman, and had issue.
On 18th February 1684 Frances Wilhelmina Bentinck Baroness Byron was born to William Bentinck 1st Earl of Portland (age 34) and Anne Villiers Countess Portland (age 33). She married 19th December 1706 her fifth cousin once removed William Byron 4th Baron Byron, son of William Byron 3rd Baron Byron and Elizabeth Chaworth Baroness Byron, and had issue.
On 18th February 1714 John Howe 2nd Baron Chedworth was born to John Howe 1st Baron Chedworth. He married 23rd September 1751 Martha Parker, daughter of Philip Parker 3rd Baronet.
On 18th February 1715 Augustus Berkeley 4th Earl Berkeley was born to James Berkeley 3rd Earl Berkeley (age 35) and Louisa Lennox Countess Berkeley (age 20). He a great grandson of King Charles II of England Scotland and Ireland. He married 7th May 1744 Elizabeth Drax Countess Berkeley and Nugent and had issue.
On 18th February 1721 William Hamilton was born to James Hamilton 7th Earl Abercorn (age 34) and Anne Plumer Countess Abercorn (age 31).
On 18th February 1724 Robert King 1st Baron Kingsborough was born to Henry King 3rd Baronet (age 43) and Isabella Wingfield Lady King (age 41).
On 18th February 1730 John Dormer was born to John Dormer 7th Baron Dormer (age 38).
On 18th February 1743 John Byng 5th Viscount Torrington was born to George Byng 3rd Viscount Torrington (age 41). He married 3rd March 1767 Bridget Forrest Viscountess Byng and had issue.
On 18th February 1746 John Dyke Acland was born to John Dyke Acland 7th Baronet (age 23) and Elizabeth Dyke Lady Acland. He married before 13th December 1772 Christian Harriet Fox-Strangways, daughter of Stephen Fox-Strangways 1st Earl of Ilchester and Elizabeth Strangways-Horner Countess Ilchester, and had issue.
On 18th February 1751 Adolf Ulrik Wertmüller was born.
Henrici Quinti, Angliæ Regis, Gesta, is a first-hand account of the Agincourt Campaign, and subsequent events to his death in 1422. The author of the first part was a Chaplain in King Henry's retinue who was present from King Henry's departure at Southampton in 1415, at the siege of Harfleur, the battle of Agincourt, and the celebrations on King Henry's return to London. The second part, by another writer, relates the events that took place including the negotiations at Troye, Henry's marriage and his death in 1422.
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On 18th February 1755 James Hamilton 7th Duke Hamilton 4th Duke Brandon was born to James Hamilton 6th Duke Hamilton 3rd Duke Brandon (age 30) and Elizabeth Gunning Duchess Hamilton and Argyll (age 21) at Holyrood Palace, Holyrood.
On 18th February 1755 Charles Cockerell 1st Baronet was born to John Cockerell (age 41) and Frances Jackson (age 32). He married (1) 11th March 1789 Mary Tryphena Blunt, daughter of Charles William Blunt 3rd Baronet and Elizabeth Peers Lady Blunt (2) 13th February 1808 Harriet Rushout, daughter of John Rushout 1st Baron Northwick and Rebecca Bowles, and had issue.
On 18th February 1766 George Evans 4th Baron Carbery was born to George Evans 3rd Baron Carbery (age 33) and Elizabeth Horton Baroness Carbery. He married 1792 Susan Watson Baroness Carbery.
On 18th February 1775 Thomas Girtin was born.
On 18th February 1802 Adolphus Fitz-Clarence was born illegitimately to King William IV of the United Kingdom (age 36) and Dorothea Bland aka "Mrs Jordan" (age 40).
On 18th February 1804 Isaac Lowthian Bell 1st Baronet was born. He married 20th July 1842 Margaret Pattinson and had issue.
On 18th February 1820 Maria Copley Young was born to Robert Herries Spearman Young (age 37). She married 4th September 1844 Frederick Vincent 11th Baronet and had issue.
On 18th February 1822 Augusta Finch Countess Dartmouth was born to Heneage Finch 5th Earl Aylesford (age 35) and Augusta Sophia Greville Countess Aylesford. She married 9th June 1846 her second cousin William Legge 5th Earl Dartmouth, son of William Legge 4th Earl Dartmouth and Frances Charlotte Chetwynd-Talbot Countess Dartmouth, and had issue.
On 18th February 1825 Caroline Eliza Leigh Baroness Saye and Sele was born to Chandos Leigh 1st Baron Leigh (age 33). She married 18th August 1857 her first cousin once removed Frederick Twisleton-Wykeham-Fiennes 10th or 16th Baron Saye and Sele.
On 18th February 1829 William Monson 1st Viscount Oxenbridge was born to William John Monson 6th Baron Monson (age 32). He married 7th August 1869 Maria Adelaide Maude Countess Yarborough, daughter of Cornwallis Maude 3rd Viscount Hawarden and Jane Crawfurd Bruce.
On 18th February 1852 Gertrude Emily Pitt-Rivers was born to George Pitt-Rivers 4th Baron Rivers (age 41) and Susan Georgiana Leveson-Gower Baroness Rivers (age 42).
On 18th February 1853 John Lister-Kaye 3rd Baronet was born to Lister Lister-Kaye (age 25) and Caroline Pepys. He married 5th December 1881 Maria de la Natividad "Natica" Yznaga.
On 18th February 1860 Anders Zorn was born.
On 18th February 1883 Doloroes Olga Salusbury-Trelawny Baroness Rendlesham was born to William Lewis Salusbury-Trelawny 10th Baronet (age 38) and Harriet Jacqueline Buller Lady Salusbury-Trelawny (age 62). She married 27th October 1931 Frederick Archibald Charles 6th Baron Rendlesham, son of Frederick Thellusson 5th Baron Rendlesham and Egidia Montgomerie Baroness Rendlesham.
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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On 18th February 1918 George Byng was born to Arthur Stanley Byng 10th Viscount Torrington (age 41).
On 18th February 1926 Christopher James 5th Baron Northbourne was born to Walter James 4th Baron Northbourne (age 30).
On 18th February 1940 Francis Egerton 7th Duke Sutherland was born to Cyril Reginald Egerton (age 34).
On 18th February 1940 David Watkin Williams-Wynn 11th Baronet was born to Owen Watkin Williams-Wynn 10th Baronet (age 35).
On 18th February 1951 Charles Wrightson 4th Baronet was born to John Garmondsway Wrightson 3rd Baronet (age 39).
On 18th February 1969 Georgia Powell Duchess of Beaufort was born to Tristram Roger Dymoke Powell (age 28). She married 30th April 2018 Henry John Fitzroy 12th Duke of Beaufort, son of David Fitzroy 11th Duke Beaufort and Caroline Jane Thynne 11th Duchess Beaufort.
On 18th February 1413 Thomas Grey of Heton (age 9) and Isabel York Countess Eu and Essex (age 4) were married. She the daughter of Richard of Conisbrough 1st Earl Cambridge (age 27) and Anne Mortimer. They were fourth cousins. He a great x 4 grandson of King Edward I of England. She a great granddaughter of King Edward III of England.
On 18th February 1680 John Ernest Saxe Coburg Saalfeld IV Duke Saxe Coburg Saalfeld (age 21) and Sophie Hedwig Saxe Merseburg Duchess Saxe Coburg Saalfeld were married at Merseburg, Saxony-Anhalt. She by marriage Duchess Saxe Coburg Saalfeld. She the daughter of Christian Saxe Merseburg 1st Duke Saxe Merseburg. He the son of Ernest "The Pious" Saxe Gotha I Duke Saxe Gotha and Elisabeth Sophie Saxe Altenburg Duchess Saxe Gotha (age 60).
On 18th February 1692 Philippe Bourbon II Duke Orléans (age 17) and Françoise Marie Bourbon Duchess Orléans (age 15) were married at Palace of Versailles, Versailles. She by marriage Duchess Orléans. She the illegitmate daughter of Louis "Sun King" XIV King France (age 53) and Françoise Athénaïs Marquise Montespan (age 51). He the son of Philip Bourbon I Duke Orléans (age 51) and Elizabeth Charlotte Palatinate Simmern Duchess Orléans (age 39). They were first cousins. He a great x 2 grandson of King James I of England and Ireland and VI of Scotland.
On 18th February 1705 Richard Molyneux 5th Viscount Molyneux (age 25) and Mary Brudenell Viscountess Molyneux (age 22) were married. They were fifth cousins.
On 18th February 1734 Francis Godolphin 2nd Baron Goldolphin (age 27) and Barbara Bentinck (age 24) were married. She the daughter of William Bentinck 1st Earl of Portland and Jane Martha Temple Countess Portland (age 62).
This is a translation of the 'Memoires of Jacques du Clercq', published in 1823 in two volumes, edited by Frederic, Baron de Reissenberg. In his introduction Reissenberg writes: 'Jacques du Clercq tells us that he was born in 1424, and that he was a licentiate in law and a counsellor to Philip the Good, Duke of Burgundy, in the castellany of Douai, Lille, and Orchies. It appears that he established his residence at Arras. In 1446, he married the daughter of Baldwin de la Lacherie, a gentleman who lived in Lille. We read in the fifth book of his Memoirs that his father, also named Jacques du Clercq, had married a lady of the Le Camelin family, from Compiègne. His ancestors, always attached to the counts of Flanders, had constantly served them, whether in their councils or in their armies.' The Memoires cover a period of nineteen years beginning in in 1448, ending in in 1467. It appears that the author had intended to extend the Memoirs beyond that date; no doubt illness or death prevented him from carrying out this plan. As Reissenberg writes the 'merit of this work lies in the simplicity of its narrative, in its tone of good faith, and in a certain air of frankness which naturally wins the reader’s confidence.' Du Clercq ranges from events of national and international importance, including events of the Wars of the Roses in England, to simple, everyday local events such as marriages, robberies, murders, trials and deaths, including that of his own father in Book 5; one of his last entries.
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On 18th February 1768 John Smith 1st Baronet (age 23) and Elizabeth Curtis Lady Smith were married.
On 18th February 1843 George V King Hanover (age 23) and Marie Saxe Altenburg Queen Consort Hanover were married. He the son of Ernest Augustus King Hanover (age 71) and Frederica Mecklenburg Strelitz Queen Consort Hanover.
On 18th February 1868 Frederick Lygon 6th Earl Beauchamp (age 37) and Emily Annora Charlotte Pierrepont Countess Beauchamp (age 14) were married. She by marriage Countess Beauchamp. The difference in their ages was 22 years. She the daughter of Sydney William Herbert Pierrepont 3rd Earl Manvers (age 43). He the son of Henry Beauchamp Lygon 4th Earl Beauchamp and Susan Caroline Eliot. They were fourth cousin once removed.
On 18th February 1868 Frederick Lygon 6th Earl Beauchamp (age 37) and Mary Catherine Stanhope Countess Beauchamp (age 24) were married. She by marriage Countess Beauchamp. She the daughter of Philip Stanhope 5th Earl Stanhope (age 63) and Emily Harriet Countess Stanhope. He the son of Henry Beauchamp Lygon 4th Earl Beauchamp and Susan Caroline Eliot.
On 18th February 1878 a double Royal Wedding took place at Berlin. The brides were second-cousins.
Bernhard Saxe Meiningen III Duke Saxe Meiningen (age 26) and Charlotte Hohenzollern (age 17) were married. She the daughter of Frederick III King Prussia (age 46) and Victoria Empress Germany Queen Consort Prussia (age 37). He the son of Georg II Duke of Saxe Meiningen (age 51). They were third cousin twice removed. She a granddaughter of Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom.
Frederick Augustus II Grand Duke of Oldenburg (age 25) and Elisabeth Anna Hohenzollern (age 21) were married. They were fifth cousins.
The event was attended by King Leopold II of Belgium (age 42) and his wife Marie Henriette of Austria, and the Prince of Wales (age 36) and his brother Prince Arthur Windsor 1st Duke Connaught and Strathearn (age 27).
On 18th February 1886 William Henry Hare Hedges-White 4th Earl Bantry (age 32) and Rosamund Catherine Petre Countess Bantry (age 28) were married. She by marriage Countess Bantry. He the son of William Henry Hare Hedges-White 3rd Earl Bantry.
On 18th February 675 Colmán of Lindisfarne (age 70) died at Inishbofin.
On 18th February 1187 Bishop Gilbert Foliot died.
On 18th February 1225 Hugh Bigod 3rd Earl Norfolk (age 43) died. His son Roger (age 16) succeeded 4th Earl Norfolk.
On 18th February 1397 Enguerrand de Coucy 1st Earl Bedford 1st Count Soissons (age 57) died whilst a prisoner following the Battle of Nicopolis without male issue. Earl Bedford extinct. His daughter Marie (age 30) succeeded Countess Soissons.
On 18th February 1478 William Stourton 2nd Baron Stourton (age 52) died. He was buried in St Mary's Church, Mere. His son John (age 24) succeeded 3rd Baron Stourton.
On 18th February 1478 George York 1st Duke of Clarence (age 28) was drowned in a butt of wine (Malmsey) wine in the Bowyer Tower in the Tower of London [Map]. "in a butt of Malmsey wine" may refer to 1. a butt full of Malmsey wine or 2. a butt that once contained Malmsey wine that was subsequently re-used for another purpose such as washing or bathing.
William Hussey (age 35) conducted the impeachment of the Duke of Clarence for treason.
Richard, Duke of Gloucester (age 25) succeeded 2nd Earl Richmond.
The only other person known to have been executed, or ritually killed, by drowning in a butt of wine is Muirchertach mac Muiredaig High King of Ireland (as reported by the Annals of Ulster) in his case at Newgrange Passage Tomb [Map].
On 18th February 1628 Thomas Harries aka Harris 1st Baronet (age 78) died. Baronet Harris of Tong Castle in Shropshire extinct.
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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On 18th February 1658 John Villiers 1st Viscount Purbeck (age 67) died without issue. Viscount Purbeck extinct although Robert Wright aka Villiers aka Danvers (age 33), illegitimate son of his wife Frances Coke Viscountess Purbeck and Robert Howard attempted to claim the title.
On 12th February 1712 Maria Adelaide Savoy (age 26) died of measles at Versailles.
On 18th February 1712 Louis Bourbon Duke Burgundy (age 29) died of measles contracted when nursing his wife Maria Adelaide Savoy who had died six days previously.
On 8th March 1712, their eldest son, heir to the throne, Louis Bourbon Duke Brittany (age 5) died of measles.
The heir to the French throne their only remaining son Louis (age 1), aged two, great-grandson of the reigning monarch Louis "Sun King" XIV King France (age 73) who succeeded his great-grandfather three years later in 1715.
On 18th February 1726 John Molesworth 2nd Viscount Molesworth (age 47) died. His brother Richard (age 46) succeeded 3rd Viscount Molesworth of Swords.
On 18th February 1729 Alexander Montgomerie 9th Earl Eglinton (age 69) died. His son Alexander (age 6) succeeded 10th Earl Eglinton.
On 18th February 1791 Frederica Caroline Saxe Coburg Saalfeld Margrave Brandenburg-Ansbach (age 55) died.
On 18th February 1825 Elizabeth Cope Lady Welby (age 67) died.
On 18th February 1840 David William Murray 3rd Earl of Mansfield (age 62) died. His son William (age 33) succeeded 4th Earl Mansfield in Middlesex, 9th Viscount Stormont.
On 18th February 1853 Bishop John Kaye (age 69) died at Riseholme Hall, Lincolnshire. He was buried at St Mary's Church, Riseholme.
On 18th February 1856 Henry Charles Howard 13th Duke of Norfolk (age 64) died. His son Henry (age 41) succeeded 14th Duke Norfolk, 25th or 32nd Earl Arundel, 15th Earl Surrey, 12th Earl Norfolk, 22nd Baron Maltravers, 22nd Baron Arundel.
On 18th February 1857 Francis Leveson Gower aka Egerton 1st Earl Ellesmere (age 57) died. His son George (age 33) succeeded 2nd Earl Ellesmere. Mary Louisa Campbell Countess Ellesmere (age 32) by marriage Countess Ellesmere.
On 16th October 1859 John Fane 11th Earl of Westmoreland (age 75) died. His son Francis (age 33) succeeded 12th Earl of Westmoreland. Adelaide Ida Curzon Howe Countess of Westmoreland (age 24) by marriage Countess of Westmoreland.
On 18th February 1879 Priscilla Anne Wellesley-Pole Countess of Westmoreland (age 85) died. Both were buried at the Church of St Leonard, Apethorpe [Map].
John Fane 11th Earl of Westmoreland: On 2nd February 1784 he was born to John Fane 10th Earl of Westmoreland and Sarah Anne Child Countess of Westmoreland. On 26th June 1811 John Fane 11th Earl of Westmoreland and Priscilla Anne Wellesley-Pole Countess of Westmoreland were married. She the daughter of William Wellesley aka Wellesley-Pole 3rd Earl Mornington and Katherine Forbes Countess Mornington. He the son of John Fane 10th Earl of Westmoreland and Sarah Anne Child Countess of Westmoreland. On 15th December 1841 John Fane 10th Earl of Westmoreland died. His son John succeeded 11th Earl of Westmoreland. Priscilla Anne Wellesley-Pole Countess of Westmoreland by marriage Countess of Westmoreland.
Priscilla Anne Wellesley-Pole Countess of Westmoreland: On 13th March 1793 she was born to William Wellesley aka Wellesley-Pole 3rd Earl Mornington and Katherine Forbes Countess Mornington.
Henrici Quinti, Angliæ Regis, Gesta, is a first-hand account of the Agincourt Campaign, and subsequent events to his death in 1422. The author of the first part was a Chaplain in King Henry's retinue who was present from King Henry's departure at Southampton in 1415, at the siege of Harfleur, the battle of Agincourt, and the celebrations on King Henry's return to London. The second part, by another writer, relates the events that took place including the negotiations at Troye, Henry's marriage and his death in 1422.
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On 18th February 1863 Charles Edward Pepys 2nd Earl of Cottenham (age 38) died unmarried. His brother William (age 37) succeeded 3rd Earl of Cottenham, 3rd Viscount Crowhurst of Crowhurst in Surrey, 3rd Baron Cottenham of Cottenham in Cambridgshire, 5th Baronet Pepys of Wimpole Street, 6th Baronet Pepys of Brook Street.
On 18th February 1866 Henry Peyton 3rd Baronet (age 61) died. His son Algernon (age 32) succeeded 4th Baronet Peyton of Doddington.
On 18th February 1866 Thomas Hay-Drummond 11th Earl Kinnoull (age 80) died. His son George (age 38) succeeded 12th Earl Kinnoull, 5th Baron Hay of Pedwardine in Herefordshire. Emily Blanche Charlotte Somerset Countess Kinnoul (age 38) by marriage Countess Kinnoull.
On 18th February 1888 William Edmonstone 4th Baronet (age 78) died. His son Archibald (age 20) succeeded 5th Baronet Edmonstone of Duntreath in Stirlingshire.
On 18th February 1919 Thomas Dyke Acland 12th Baronet (age 76) died. His brother Arthur (age 71) succeeded 13th Baronet Acland of Columb John in Devon. Alice Sophia Cunningham Lady Acland (age 70) by marriage Lady Acland of Columb John in Devon.
On 18th February 1929 Samuel Morley 1st Baron Hollenden (age 83) died. His son Geoffrey (age 44) succeeded 2nd Baron Hollenden of Leigh in Kent.
On 18th February 1949 Geoffrey Twisleton-Wykeham-Fiennes 13th or 19th Baron Saye and Sele (age 64) died unmarried. His brother Ivo (age 63) succeeded 14th or 20th Baron Saye and Sele.
On 18th February 1951 John Courtown Edward Shelley 6th Baronet (age 79) died. His brother Percy (age 78) succeeded 7th Baronet Shelley of Castle Goring in Sussex.
On 18th February 1962 Evelyn Hugh Boscawen 8th Viscount Falmouth (age 74) died. His son George (age 42) succeeded 9th Viscount Falmouth, 16th Baron Despencer.
On 18th February 2002 Ela Helen Aline Beaumont Countess Carlisle (age 76) died.