John of Eltham, Earl of Cornwall

John of Eltham, 1st Earl of Cornwall, was the second son of Edward II of England and Isabella of France, born at Eltham Palace, Kent. He became heir presumptive to the English throne until his nephew Edward, the Black Prince, was born. His early years were marked by the conflict between his parents, leading to periods of being shuffled between them and even a stint in the Tower of London. After his brother Edward III’s coup against their mother, John’s position in the kingdom grew stronger.

Despite the lack of extensive historical information, John was considered competent and trusted by his brother, Edward III. He served as Guardian of the Realm, opened Parliament in the king’s absence, and was Warden of the northern Marches. His military role included commanding forces at the Battle of Halidon Hill and in southwestern Scotland. He was engaged in several marriage negotiations but never married. John’s death at the age of 20 was followed by a grand burial in Westminster Abbey.