Edward the Black Prince is made Duke of Cornwall, the first duchy in England.

Edward the Black Prince was one of the most famous English military leaders of the Middle Ages and the eldest son of Edward III. Born in 1330, he was given the title Prince of Wales at a young age and quickly became known for his leadership and bravery in battle. His nickname “Black Prince” likely came from his dark armour or shield, though historians still debate the exact origin. He lived during the early stages of the Hundred Years’ War, a long series of wars between England and France over claims to the French throne.

Edward gained great fame through his victories against the French. One of his most notable successes was the Battle of Crécy, where he helped command the English forces and demonstrated strong leadership despite being only sixteen years old. Later, he achieved another major victory at the Battle of Poitiers, where English troops defeated a much larger French army and captured John II of France. These victories made him a legendary figure in England and strengthened the country’s position in the war.

Despite his military reputation, Edward never became king. He spent his later years governing the English-held region of Aquitaine in France, but illness weakened him over time. He died in 1376 at the age of 45, one year before his father. Because of his early death, the English throne eventually passed to his son, Richard II. Edward the Black Prince remains remembered as a symbol of medieval chivalry and one of England’s greatest knights.