Earl facts for kids

An Earl is a special title for a noble person. It was first used by the Anglo-Saxons in England and the Norse people (like Vikings). Originally, an Earl was a powerful leader or a ruler in charge of a territory for a king.

In the old days, the title of Earl was similar to an Ealdorman, who was a high-ranking royal officer. Over time, in Britain, the title of Earl became like a "Count" in other European countries.

Today, an Earl is a member of the British peerage, which is a system of noble titles. An Earl ranks below a Marquess but above a Viscount. The wife of an Earl is called a Countess.

The royal procession to Parliament in Westminster, 1512. Many Earls are shown here.

What is an Earl?

An Earl is a very old title of nobility. It shows that someone belongs to a family with a long history of importance. This title is passed down through families, usually from father to son.

History of the Earl Title

The word "Earl" comes from an old Norse word, "jarl." In Scandinavia, jarls were powerful chiefs or governors. They often ruled large areas for a king.

• Early England: When the Vikings came to England, they brought the "jarl" title with them. The Anglo-Saxons already had similar leaders called Ealdormen. Over time, "Earl" became the main title for these powerful regional rulers.
• After 1066: After the Norman Conquest in 1066, the Norman kings kept the title of Earl. They gave it to their most important supporters. These Earls were given large areas of land and had a lot of power. They were like the king's main helpers in different parts of the country.

Earls Today

In modern Britain, the title of Earl is still used. It is part of the peerage, which includes different ranks of nobles. These ranks are:

• Duke (highest)
• Marquess
• Earl
• Viscount
• Baron (lowest)

While Earls no longer rule territories like they did in the past, they are still respected members of society. Many Earls have historic family homes and play a role in traditions.

Images for kids

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  Eorla in medieval Beowulf manuscript

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  Odo of Bayeux, fighting in the Battle of Hastings as shown in the Bayeux Tapestry. Odo was later made Earl of Kent.

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  Hedingham Castle, seat of the Earls of Oxford, is in Essex where most of the earl's land was concentrated

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  Earl's coronation robes

See also

In Spanish: Earl para niños