Edward The Black Prince also known as Edward of Woodstock was a legendary English prince in the 14th century. His actions during times of battle led to much acclaim. Why he is called The Black Prince is debated.
Some believe he received the name because of his black armor and shield. Others say it is because of his brutality towards the French during the Hundred Years’ War. He did not use his nickname while alive.
Childhood
Edward The Black Prince was born in 1330 C.E. in Woodstock, England. He was the oldest son of Edward III. He was tutored in military tactics at a very young age. At age of seven years old he was appointed the First Duke of Cornwall.
When he turned 13 years old he received the title of Prince of Wales. While growing up he spent considerable time with his cousin Joan also known as “The Fair Maid of Kent”.
Middle years
Edward The Black Prince is well-known for his military skills in battle. In 1346 C.E. he was victorious against the French at the Battle of Crecy. He led a campaign against the invading Normans at Crecy and laid siege to the city of Calais.
He was a brilliant military commander on land and on the water. He led an English fleet to victory against a Castilian in 1350 C.E. while battling in the English Channel during the Battle of Winchelsea. Edward The Black Prince also was victorious in 1356 C.E. at the Battle of Poitiers.
After gaining permission from Pope Innocent VI he married his cousin Joan in 1361 C.E. His marriage was seen as a mistake by many members who wished for him to marry into a foreign royal family.
He was then appointed to his father’s court in Aquitane. Here he hosted many exiled leaders including James IV of Majorca and Peter of Castile. They would have two children including Richard II the future King of England.
Later years
Edward The Black Prince failed in health from 1366 C.E. onward. He returned to battle the French in 1367 C.E. at the Battle of Najera.
Here he fought against Henry of Trastamara and helped Peter of Castile return to the throne. In 1370 C.E. he defended his court of Aquitaine against the French King Charles V.
He died at the young age of 45 years old never becoming the King of England. He would be laid to rest at the Canterbury Cathedral in Kent. Richard II, his second son, would become King of England upon the death of Edward The Black Prince’s father’s death.
Important facts about Edward The Black Prince
- Edward The Black Prince was born at Woodstock Palace in 1033 C.E.
- He was the oldest son of King Edward III of England.
- He held important titles such as the First Duke of Cornwall at age seven and the Prince of Wales when he turned 13 years old.
- Edward The Black Prince was a brilliant military commander and soldier.
- He won numerous victories for England during the Hundred Years’ War.
- He married his cousin Joan “The Fair Maid of Kent” with Pope Alexander III’s permission.
- Edward The Black Prince did not have a nickname while living. His nickname is debated by historians. It is because he wore black armor and shield or because of his brutality towards the French during battle.
- His son Richard II would become King of England upon the death of King Edward III, Edward The Black Prince’s father.
Questions
- Who was Edward The Black Prince’s father?
King Edward III of England
- What is he most famous for in his lifetime?
His military tactics and soldiering
- Which pope gave him permission to marry his cousin Joan of Kent?
Pope Alexander III
- Which of his sons would become king after King Edward III’s death?
Richard II
- Back to –
Middle Ages