John Marshal (Earl Marshal)

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John Fitz Gilbert, Lord Marshal (Marechal) (d. ~1164) was Lord Marshal of England during the reign of King Stephen and fought in the 12th Century civil war. His son, William, was to become a legendary figure in midieval lore, and one of the most powerful men in England. The office of Marshal was won as a heriditary title by John, and originally related to the keeping of the King's horses, and later, the head of his household troops.

John's eldest son, also called John Marshal (d. 1199), inherited the title of Marshal, which he held until his death. The title was then granted by Richard the Lionhearted to William, who made the name and title famous. Though he had started out as a younger son without inheritence, by the time he actually inherited the title his reputation as a soldier and statesman was unmatched across Europe.

Preceded by Strongbow

Lord Marshal 1170–1199

Succeeded by William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke