John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster

John of Gaunt, born in Ghent and known as the Duke of Lancaster, was an English royal prince, military leader, and statesman. As the fourth son of King Edward III and the father of King Henry IV, he became one of the wealthiest individuals of his time through royal lineage, marriages, and land grants. His significant influence was felt during the reigns of his father and nephew, Richard II, and he founded the royal House of Lancaster.

John of Gaunt’s early military career took him to France and Spain as part of the Hundred Years’ War. His political role expanded when he took on government functions as his elder brother’s health declined. Gaunt played a key role during King Richard II’s minority and the political turmoil that followed, acting as a mediator between the king and rebellious nobles, including his own son. Despite his influence, his death led to the forfeiture of his estates and titles, and his son’s subsequent exile and return to depose Richard II, establishing the House of Lancaster on the English throne.