John III, Duke of Cleves

John III, Duke of Cleves and Count of Mark, also known as John the Peaceful, was a nobleman who played a significant role in the early 16th century European politics. He was born to John II, Duke of Cleves, and Mathilde of Hesse. His marriage to Duchess Maria of Jülich-Berg brought him the lordship of Ravensberg and laid the foundation for the United Duchies of Jülich-Cleves-Berg. Known for his peaceful and balanced approach, he was influenced by Erasmus and implemented church regulations reflecting Erasmian ideas. His court, liberal and theologically inclined, was the environment in which his daughter Anne was raised, who would become the fourth wife of King Henry VIII of England.