Edward the Black Prince (1330–1376), also known as Edward of Woodstock, was the eldest son of King Edward III of England and one of the most celebrated warriors of the Hundred Years’ War. Renowned for his bravery, chivalry, and military genius, the Black Prince led English forces to famous victories at Crécy (1346) and Poitiers (1356). Despite his fearsome reputation in battle, he was admired for his honor and discipline, embodying the ideals of medieval knighthood. His untimely death before his father meant he never became king, but his son, Richard II, would inherit the throne. The legacy of Edward the Black Prince endures as a symbol of English valor and knightly excellence in the Middle Ages.
It was a time when French and English were pitted against each other in a bitter contest over England’s continental territories and influence.
Edward, as the Prince of Wales and Aquitaine, proved decisive in tipping the scales in the favour of England. He was able to decisively defeat the French in a number of major battles and was immensely popular in England due to his victories.
“Edward the Black Prince was a shining example of medieval chivalry and martial prowess. His military campaigns in France showcased his strategic brilliance and unwavering determination on the battlefield. He left an indelible mark on history, admired by his contemporaries and remembered as a true knight among knights.”
Professor John Gillingham
💡 Did You Know? Fascinating Facts About Edward the Black Prince
At the Battle of Crécy in 1346, the teenage prince led English forces to a decisive win against a much larger French army.
During the Battle of Poitiers in 1356, Edward took King John II of France prisoner — one of the most dramatic moments in medieval warfare.
Despite his fearsome reputation, the Black Prince treated captured nobles with respect, earning admiration from allies and enemies alike.
Edward died before his father, King Edward III, but his son ascended the throne as King Richard II of England.
Edward the Chivalrous Knight
Knightly chivalry in the 14th century was dwindling. Edward played a major part in reviving it by being a capable military leader, soldier, and ruler.
He was instrumental in defeating the French in the Battle of Poitiers, effectively capturing the French king John the Good. John received good treatment at Edward’s hands.
Edward also established the knightly Order of the Garter in England. However, historians have also argued that he earned his epithet “The Black” due to his cruel deeds during his campaigns in France.
In view of this, Edward frequently fell short of the chivalric ideal of the medieval knights.
Edward’s Campaigns in France
Edward earned fame and popularity because of his many successful campaigns on the continent against France.
He first led the Crécy campaign which helped England establish firmer control over Normandy while pushing back the French successfully. Edward then turned to northern France where he scored yet other victories over the French forces.
He also led the English at the Battle of Winchelsea, defeating the Castilian fleet.
The grandest victory Edward bagged against France was the Battle of Poitiers. After ravaging the countryside and crippling France economically, he defeated a large French force at Poitiers and captured the King and his son.
This event single-handedly pushed France into instability for more than a decade.
“Edward’s reputation as a warrior and leader was unparalleled. He possessed a rare combination of charisma, tactical acumen, and personal courage that inspired his troops and struck fear into the hearts of his enemies. His legacy as the Black Prince endures as a symbol of valor and honor in the annals of medieval history.”
Dr. Helen Castor
Edward’s Campaign in Castile
In 1367, Edward agreed to help Peter of Castile regain his throne from which he had been ousted. He then defeated the combined might of French and Castilian forces and reestablished Peter in Castile.
This helped Edward become the Lord of Biscay for a while but the gains in the Castilian campaign were short-lived. Peter was soon murdered and Edward couldn’t recover any of the funds he had poured into the campaign.
This led him to levy new taxes in Aquitaine and take harsh measures to implement these taxes, leading to much resentment against him.
Edward’s Illness and Death
Edward contracted dysentery during his Spanish campaign in 1366. The diseases began to shatter his health and over the next few years of his life, he was unable to directly participate on the battlefield.
When defending his territories in Aquitaine against the French army, he had to be carried on a litter during the Siege of Limoges. The illness forced him to retire to England from Aquitaine and he finally died in 1376.
Since he was the direct heir to the English throne, his death made his son Richard II the heir to the throne.
Edward The Black Prince | Greak Books
“Edward the Black Prince: Power in Medieval Europe” by David Green
This book offers a comprehensive exploration of Edward the Black Prince’s life, examining his military achievements, political influence, and cultural impact on medieval Europe.
“The Black Prince: England’s Greatest Medieval Warrior” by Michael Jones
Michael Jones provides a gripping biography of Edward the Black Prince, delving into his military campaigns, his role in the Hundred Years’ War, and his enduring legacy as a renowned warrior.
“Edward, Prince of Wales and Aquitaine: A Biography of the Black Prince” by Richard Barber
Richard Barber presents a detailed account of Edward the Black Prince’s life, focusing on his upbringing, his relationships with his family and allies, and his strategic and tactical brilliance in warfare.
“The Black Prince: The King That Never Was” by Michael Jones
This book offers a fresh perspective on Edward the Black Prince, exploring his relationship with his father, King Edward III, and the circumstances that shaped his life and ultimately influenced his destiny.
“Edward the Black Prince: The Battle for France” by Peter Hoskins
Peter Hoskins examines the military career of Edward the Black Prince, specifically his campaigns in France during the Hundred Years’ War, shedding light on his military strategies, his victories, and the impact of his leadership.
These books provide in-depth insights into the life, achievements, and significance of Edward the Black Prince, offering a deeper understanding of his historical context and his enduring reputation as one of England’s most revered medieval warriors.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Edward the Black Prince
1. Who was Edward the Black Prince?
Edward the Black Prince (1330–1376) was the eldest son of King Edward III of England and one of the most celebrated knights of the Hundred Years’ War. He gained fame for his leadership, bravery, and victories against the French.
2. Why was Edward called “The Black Prince”?
The origin of his nickname is uncertain, but it’s believed to refer either to his black armor or to the fear he inspired among his enemies due to his ruthless efficiency in battle.
3. What were Edward the Black Prince’s most famous battles?
He achieved major victories at the Battle of Crécy (1346) and the Battle of Poitiers (1356), where he captured the French King John II, securing one of England’s greatest medieval triumphs.
4. What was Edward’s relationship with his father, King Edward III?
Edward was a loyal and devoted son who served as his father’s trusted military commander. His victories greatly strengthened England’s position during the early phases of the Hundred Years’ War.
5. Did Edward the Black Prince ever become king?
No, Edward died in 1376 before his father, King Edward III. His son, Richard II, would later ascend to the throne in his place.
6. How is Edward the Black Prince remembered today?
He is remembered as one of the greatest English knights, admired for his chivalry, courage, and military brilliance. Monuments to him still stand in Canterbury Cathedral and other historic sites across England.
7. What role did Edward play in medieval chivalry?
Edward embodied the ideals of chivalry and honor. He treated noble prisoners with respect, promoted knightly conduct, and became a model for medieval valor throughout Europe.