William Marshal, 2nd Earl of Pembroke

William Marshal, 2nd Earl of Pembroke, also known as Guillaume le Maréchal, was a medieval English nobleman who played a significant role as one of the sureties of Magna Carta. He engaged in combat during the First Barons’ War and fought at the Battle of Lincoln in 1217 with his father, who commanded the English forces. He honored his father by commissioning the first biography of a medieval knight, titled L’Histoire de Guillaume le Mareschal.

Born in Normandy as the eldest son of William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke, and Isabel de Clare, he spent part of his youth as a hostage at King John’s court. Upon reaching adulthood, he inherited his father’s titles and became a powerful figure in England, also holding properties in Normandy. His military and political actions included campaigns in Ireland and against Llywelyn the Great, as well as supporting the royal cause after initially backing the rebels during the First Barons’ War.