Richard Marshal, 3rd Earl of Pembroke (b. 1191)

Richard Marshal, 3rd Earl of Pembroke, was a significant figure in 13th-century England, inheriting a name synonymous with power, prestige, and unwavering loyalty to the crown. Born in 1191, his life was interwoven with the turbulent political landscape of his era, as he stepped into the formidable shoes of his illustrious family.

His lineage alone commanded immense respect. Richard was the son of the legendary William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke, a man widely celebrated by his contemporaries as "the greatest knight" of his age. The elder William was a pivotal figure in English history, serving loyally under five kings and acting as regent for the young King Henry III, stabilizing the realm during a critical period. This powerful foundation meant that the Marshal name carried extraordinary weight and expectation.

Richard also had an elder brother, William Marshal, 2nd Earl of Pembroke, who continued the family's tradition of military and political influence. However, fate called upon Richard to take up the mantle sooner than perhaps expected. Upon his brother's passing on April 6, 1231, Richard formally succeeded to the prestigious titles. He became the 3rd Earl of Pembroke, inheriting a vast and strategically important Anglo-Norman earldom with significant holdings in both England and Ireland. Alongside this, he also assumed the hereditary, high office of Lord Marshal of England, a crucial position responsible for the ceremonial aspects of the royal court, the regulation of state affairs, and indeed, elements of military organization. This placed him squarely at the heart of the kingdom’s governance and defense.

While his succession is clearly documented, Richard Marshal's time as Earl was notably marked by his staunch principled opposition. He emerged as a leading voice among the English barons who resisted the perceived abuses of power by King Henry III's foreign favourites, particularly Peter des Roches. Richard's advocacy for English law and customs against foreign influence made him a champion of baronial rights and a figure of considerable political consequence. His life, which tragically concluded on April 15, 1234, underscored a period of intense struggle over the direction of English governance, where the Marshal family continued to play a central, often defiant, role.

Frequently Asked Questions about Richard Marshal, 3rd Earl of Pembroke

Who was Richard Marshal's famous father?

Richard Marshal was the son of William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke, a legendary figure often called "the greatest knight" of his era and a powerful regent during the minority of King Henry III.

What titles did Richard Marshal inherit?

Upon his brother's death, Richard Marshal succeeded as the 3rd Earl of Pembroke and also inherited the hereditary, high office of Lord Marshal of England.

When did Richard Marshal become Earl of Pembroke?

He succeeded to the Earldom of Pembroke and the office of Lord Marshal of England on April 6, 1231, following the death of his elder brother, William Marshal, 2nd Earl of Pembroke.

What was the significance of the Lord Marshal of England title?

The Lord Marshal of England was a hereditary and powerful office, involving responsibilities for royal ceremonies, maintaining order within the royal household, and some aspects of military organization, placing its holder at the heart of the kingdom's governance.

What was Richard Marshal known for during his time as Earl?

Beyond his succession, Richard Marshal became a prominent leader of the baronial opposition against King Henry III's foreign favourites, particularly Peter des Roches, advocating for English law and customs and defending baronial rights against perceived royal overreach.