King Richard facts for kids

King Richard is a name that often makes us think of three important English kings from history. They all ruled England at different times. This name can also refer to other famous people or things.

English Kings Named Richard

When people say "King Richard," they usually mean one of these three English monarchs:

Richard I: The Lionheart

• Richard I of England (1157–1199) was also known as Richard the Lionheart. He was a brave warrior king. He ruled England from 1189 to 1199. Richard I spent most of his time fighting in wars, especially the Crusades. He was a very famous knight.

Richard II: A Young King

• Richard II of England (1367–1400) became king when he was very young. He ruled from 1377 to 1399. His reign had many challenges. He faced a big rebellion called the Peasants' Revolt. Richard II was eventually removed from power.

Richard III: The Last Plantagenet

• Richard III of England (1452–1485) was the last king from the Plantagenet family. He ruled from 1483 to 1485. His time as king was short. He died in the Battle of Bosworth Field. This battle ended the Wars of the Roses.

Who Was King Richard IV?

No English king has ever officially used the title King Richard IV. However, this name sometimes refers to a few different people:

• Richard of Shrewsbury, 1st Duke of York was one of the "Princes in the Tower." He was a young boy who disappeared in 1483. Some people believe he should have been King Richard IV.
• Perkin Warbeck (1474–1499) was a young man who claimed to be Richard, Duke of York. He tried to become king.
• King Richard IV is also a funny character from the TV show Blackadder. This is a fictional version of the Duke of York.

Other Famous "King Richards"

The name "King Richard" is also used for other things and people:

• King Richard (film) is a movie. It tells the true story of the father of famous tennis players Venus and Serena Williams.
• King Richard is a special computer font. It was designed by Ray Larabie.
• The nickname "King Richard" has been given to several famous athletes:
  • Dick Reynolds (1915–2002) was a great Australian rules footballer.
  • Richard Petty (born 1937) is a legendary NASCAR stock car driver. He is known as "The King" in racing.
  • Dick Burleson (born 1948) was a champion in enduro motorcycle racing.
  • Richard Brodeur (born 1952) was a Canadian ice hockey goalie.
• King Richard is also a character in the Guardians of Time book series. This series was written by Marianne Curley.
• King Richard's Faire is a fun event. It is a Renaissance fair held every year in Carver, Massachusetts. People dress up and enjoy medieval times.