William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke (1147 – 14 May 1219), sometimes called William, the Marshal or "the Marshal", was an "English" Knight who served five Kings. He was Regent of England for a time during the childhood of Edward III. In his day he may have been one of the most important persons in the monarchy next to the Royal family itself. He was noted for his superior combat skills, his continuing loyalty to his Kings and his great ability in diplomacy. Marshal began his life as a “landless” knight to become the Earl of Pembroke and one of the wealthiest men in the country.