The founding of the Order of the Garter by King Edward III is announced on St. George's Day.

The Most Noble Order of the Garter: England's Premier Chivalric Honour

Founded by King Edward III of England in 1348, The Most Noble Order of the Garter stands as the pinnacle of the British honours system, a testament to centuries of chivalry and tradition. Dedicated to the image and arms of Saint George, England's revered patron saint, this prestigious order embodies the enduring spirit of knighthood. Its seniority is unmatched amongst British orders of knighthood, surpassed in overall precedence only by the extraordinary courage recognised through the Victoria Cross and the George Cross.

Historically, the Order's inception during the Hundred Years' War era often sparks curiosity. While its exact origins are debated by historians, a popular legend attributes its founding to an incident at a court ball. Reportedly, the Countess of Salisbury's garter slipped, leading to an awkward moment which Edward III gracefully diffused by picking it up and fastening it to his own leg, uttering the famous motto, "Honi soit qui mal y pense" – Middle French for 'Shame on him who thinks evil of it'. This tale, whether entirely factual or apocryphal, perfectly encapsulates the chivalrous spirit and the emphasis on loyalty and honour that the Order represents.

Membership and Appointments

Membership in the Order of the Garter is one of the most personal gifts within the Sovereign's power, being entirely at their sole discretion. Appointments are typically bestowed in recognition of significant contributions to national life, outstanding public service, or profound personal service to the reigning monarch. It is a highly exclusive society, steeped in tradition and limited in number.

Emblems and Ceremonies

The Order's most recognisable emblem is the garter itself, a blue velvet strap edged in gold, bearing the motto "Honi soit qui mal y pense" in shimmering gold lettering. Members proudly wear this garter on their left leg (for men) or left arm (for women) on ceremonial occasions. Other significant insignia include the Star, featuring the cross of Saint George encircled by the garter, worn on the left chest; the Collar, a series of gold knots and roses from which hangs the Lesser George (an enamel figure of Saint George on horseback slaying the dragon); and the Mantle, a grand blue velvet robe lined with white taffeta. Annually, Garter Day sees members gather at Windsor Castle, often processing in their magnificent robes, a colourful spectacle that continues to capture public imagination and highlight the Order's enduring legacy.

Edward III: The Architect of England's Power and the Garter's Founder

Edward III (13 November 1312 – 21 June 1377), known as Edward of Windsor before his accession, was a pivotal figure in English history, ruling as King of England and Lord of Ireland from January 1327 until his death in 1377. His extraordinary fifty-year reign, one of the longest in medieval England, was a period of profound transformation, restoring royal authority and forging England into one of Europe's most formidable military powers.

Early Life and Ascendancy

Edward's early life was marked by the dramatic political turmoil surrounding his father, Edward II. Crowned at the tender age of fourteen after his father was deposed by his mother, Isabella of France, and her lover Roger Mortimer, young Edward initially reigned under their regency. However, at just seventeen, demonstrating remarkable political acumen and courage, he successfully led a coup d'état against Mortimer, who had become the de facto ruler of the country, thereby commencing his personal reign. This bold move immediately signaled the arrival of a strong and determined monarch.

Military Triumphs and the Hundred Years' War

Edward III is primarily renowned for his military genius. Following a successful campaign in Scotland, where he asserted English dominance, he made a momentous declaration in 1337, claiming his rightful inheritance to the French throne through his mother. This audacious claim ignited what would become known as the Hundred Years' War, a series of conflicts that profoundly shaped the futures of both England and France.

The initial phase of this monumental struggle, often termed the Edwardian War, saw unprecedented English successes. Revolutionary tactical innovations, particularly the devastating effectiveness of the English longbow, led to stunning victories against numerically superior French forces at Crécy (1346) and Poitiers (1356), where the French king, John II, was captured. These triumphs culminated in the highly favourable Treaty of Brétigny (1360), which saw England make significant territorial gains in France, though Edward symbolically renounced his claim to the French throne in exchange for these concessions. These victories not only secured vast lands but also cemented England's reputation as a dominant military force.

Domestic Developments and Challenges

Beyond the battlefield, Edward's reign witnessed vital developments in English legislation and government. Most notably, the English Parliament evolved considerably, gaining greater influence and becoming a more established part of the governing structure. However, his long reign was also marked by immense challenges, chief among them the ravages of the Black Death, which swept across Europe from 1347, decimating England's population and having profound and lasting social, economic, and political effects. In his later years, Edward's fortunes waned, with international failures and domestic strife overshadowing earlier triumphs, largely due to his declining health and increasing inactivity.

Legacy and Succession

Edward III was a complex figure: temperamental yet capable of unusual clemency, primarily driven by warfare, yet also a patron of chivalry and a shrewd administrator. In his own time and for centuries following, he was admired as an ideal chivalrous king. While later Whig historians like Bishop William Stubbs sometimes denounced him as an irresponsible adventurer, modern historians generally credit him with significant achievements, recognising his crucial role in establishing a strong English national identity and shaping its future. He outlived his eldest and most celebrated son, Edward the Black Prince, meaning the throne passed to his grandson, Richard II, upon his death.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Order of the Garter and Edward III

What is the primary purpose of the Order of the Garter?
The Order of the Garter serves as the highest and most senior order of chivalry in the British honours system. Its primary purpose is to honour individuals for their significant national contributions, public service, or personal service to the Sovereign, embodying ideals of loyalty, honour, and chivalry.
How are members chosen for the Order of the Garter?
Membership is solely at the personal discretion of the reigning Sovereign, making it a unique and highly prestigious honour. Appointments are typically made in recognition of outstanding achievements and service, rather than through any formal nomination or application process.
What is the meaning of the Order's motto, "Honi soit qui mal y pense"?
The motto, "Honi soit qui mal y pense," is Middle French for 'Shame on him who thinks evil of it'. It is believed to represent a defiant stance against those who might question the Order's principles or the actions of its founder, King Edward III, emphasising honour and integrity.
Who was Edward III, and why is he significant?
Edward III was King of England from 1327 to 1377. He is highly significant for restoring royal authority after his father's tumultuous reign, transforming England into a formidable military power through victories in the Hundred Years' War (such as Crécy and Poitiers), and overseeing crucial developments in Parliament and government, despite the challenges posed by the Black Death.
What was the Hundred Years' War?
The Hundred Years' War was a series of conflicts fought between England and France from 1337 to 1453. It began when Edward III claimed the French throne and was characterised by major battles, innovative military tactics, and profound political and social changes in both kingdoms, significantly shaping their national identities.