Philippa of Hainault

Philippa of Hainault, also known as Philippe de Hainaut in Middle French, served as Queen of England through her marriage to King Edward III, to whom she was both wife and political adviser. She assumed the role of regent in 1346 while her husband participated in the Hundred Years’ War. Born to Count William of Hainaut and Joan of Valois, Philippa was betrothed to Edward, Prince of Wales, in 1326 and wedded in York Minster on 24 January 1328, following Edward’s ascension to the English throne and Isabella of France’s notorious invasion.

Once Edward III reclaimed the throne, Philippa’s influence encouraged him to engage in the nation’s commercial expansion. She was present at the Battle of Neville’s Cross and joined expeditions to Scotland and France. Her compassion gained her the affection of the English populace, notably when she convinced the King to spare the Burghers of Calais in 1347, a gesture that contributed to the peace that prevailed in England during their reign.