Understanding Non-Royal Dukes in the UK

When it comes to UK nobility, the title of Duke often carries with it a certain level of intrigue and historical significance. Many people are familiar with the royal dukes, but there is plenty to explore regarding non-royal Dukes. This article delves into the world of non-royal ducal titles, tracing their origins, holders, and enduring legacies.

Overview of Non-Royal Dukes

While there are only six royal Dukes, there are 24 non-royal Dukes and 191 Earls in the United Kingdom. The Dukedom is the highest rank of British nobility, often bestowed for distinguished service or significant historical achievements.

Current Non-Royal Dukes and Their Titles

Currently, there are 24 non-royal Dukes. Some of these Dukedoms have a rich history that spans centuries. Here, we explore some of the most renowned titles and their holders:

Dukedom of Norfolk

One of the oldest and most well-known Dukedoms is the Dukedom of Norfolk. Created in 1483 for John Howard, an ally of Richard III, this Dukedom has seen a fascinating timeline. It was forfeit three times during the Tudor era and reinstated twice, before finally being officially restored in 1660. The current Duke is the 18th holder of this prestigious title.

Dukedom of Somerset

The Dukedom of Somerset has an equally compelling history. Created in 1547 by Edward VI for his maternal uncle, Edward Seymour, it was forfeit under Mary I but reinstated in 1660. The current Duke is the 19th to hold this title, reflecting the Dukedom's enduring legacy.

Dukedom of Hamilton

The Dukedom of Hamilton, created in 1643 by Charles I, comes with a unique historical background. James Hamilton, the recipient of this Dukedom, was the great-great-great-grandson of James II of Scotland. Given his lineage, this Dukedom holds a prominent place among Scottish nobility and is currently held by the 16th Duke.

Significance and Longevity

Longevity is a key feature of non-royal Dukedoms. Many of these titles have survived for centuries due to the increasing number of male-line descendants of the original Duke. While royal Dukedoms have a habit of expiring or merging with the Crown, non-royal Dukedoms tend to last much longer.

Attainder and Creation for Illegitimacy

It's worth noting that several Dukedoms, such as those of Richmond and Lennox, have merged, while others have been attaindered during the Wars of the Roses. By the time of Elizabeth I, most Dukedoms had been abolished, with only a few surviving through the Stuarts (1603-1714) era. Some Dukedoms were created for illegitimate sons of royalty or became politically significant after marriages.

Notable Current Holders and Descent

While many of the current holders of non-royal Dukedoms have deep familial connections to the Royal family, others stand on their own merits, with their titles passed down through generations. Examples include:

Duke of Rutland: Created in 1703, this Dukedom, currently held by the 11th Duke, carries historical significance despite its royal connections through the Manners lineage. Duke of Manchester: Created in 1719, this Dukedom remains intriguing due to its potential future as the 13th Duke has not yet completed the necessary process to be enrolled in the House of Lords, possibly due to the complexity of his ancestry. Duke of Northumberland: Created in 1766, this Dukedom has seen 12 successive holders, making it one of the longest-lasting among the non-royal Dukedoms. Its history is marked by various political and social changes, including the role it played during the Tudor era and the High Sheriff of Northumberland.