Establishment of the Order of the Garter

April 23rd, 1348

April 23rd, 1348

Establishment of the Order of the Garter
How Long Ago?

676 years, 10 months, 20 days ago

Location

England

Category

Cultural Traditions

People
  • Edward III
  • St. George
Links & References
Tags

Establishment of the Order of the Garter

King Edward III officially announced the founding of the Order of the Garter, a chivalric order, on St. George's Day. This momentous occasion celebrated the virtues of chivalry and knightly values, particularly honoring St. George, the patron saint of England. The event emphasized loyalty, valor, and the unification of noble knights under a noble cause. The order became one of the most prestigious titles in England, reflecting the growing importance of knighthood in medieval society.

Founded by King Edward III in 1348.

St. George's Day was chosen for the announcement.

The order honored valor and chivalric ideals.

It became the highest order of chivalry in England.

What Happened?

The founding of the Order of the Garter marked a significant moment in the development of chivalric traditions within medieval England. Established by King Edward III, the Order was based on the ideals of knighthood and a deep respect for virtuous conduct among its members. Influenced by the culture of chivalry prevalent in the 14th century, the order aimed to bring together loyal knights bound by a commitment to their sovereign and the principles of bravery, honor, and fellowship. St. George, the patron saint of knights, was chosen to be the order's namesake, aligning with the king's vision of a noble and virtuous society.The ceremony for the establishment was formally timed to coincide with St. George's Day, a day revered within England for reverence to bravery and piety. During this proclamation, the king extended invitations to select knights and nobles of the realm, who embodied the ideals of chivalry. The event also included the calling for the creation of a new emblem, the Garter, a blue band worn around the leg, signifying the rank and honor of membership within the order. This visually distinct emblem later became a symbol of nobility and high prestige.The Order of the Garter distinguished itself not only through its members but also through its enduring traditions, eventually becoming the highest order of chivalry in England. Its continued existence through various historical upheavals highlights the lasting legacy of the values underscored at its founding. Edward III's initiative reflected a broader trend of consolidating power among the monarchy and the nobility, contributing significantly to national identity during a period marked by territorial ambitions and conflicts, such as the Hundred Years' War.

Why Does it Matter?

The founding of the Order of the Garter is interesting because it represents a pivotal moment in the establishment of chivalric traditions that would thrive throughout English history. This order not only solidified the bond between the monarchy and the nobility but also helped shape the cultural identity of England. The values instilled by the order influenced the behavior and expectations of knights for centuries, linking honor and loyalty to the medieval monarchy's political strategies.

Discover More Historic Events from April 23rd

Accidents & Tragedies

Lumut Mid-Air Collision During Navy Rehearsal

April 23rd, 2024 0 years ago

During a rehearsal for the 90th anniversary of the Royal Malaysian Navy, a mid-air collision occurred in Lumut, killing 10 individuals on April 23, 2024. The incident involved two military aircraft, which were performing coordinated maneuvers before the upcoming celebration. Eyewitnesses reported a loud bang followed by debris falling from the sky, confirming the severity of the situation. Both the Malaysian Air Force and Navy were involved in the planning of the event, emphasizing the importance of safety protocols.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

Deadly Jade Mine Collapse in Hpakant, Myanmar

April 23rd, 2019 5 years ago

A jade mine in Hpakant, Myanmar, collapsed, resulting in the deaths of four miners and two rescue workers. Over 50 others were reported missing and presumed dead from the disaster. The collapse triggered landslide-like conditions, common in the area known for its extensive jade mining activities. Rescue operations were launched immediately as local authorities worked to find those trapped under the rubble.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Vehicle Ramming Attack in Toronto

April 23rd, 2018 6 years ago

Alek Minassian drove a rental van into pedestrians along Yonge Street in Toronto, resulting in 11 fatalities and 15 injuries. This incident occurred in a busy area during the lunch hour, prompting immediate emergency responses and drawing significant media attention.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Violence Erupts in Hawija, Iraq, Casualties Rise

April 23rd, 2013 11 years ago

In Hawija, Iraq, a violent confrontation broke out between security forces and protesters, resulting in the deaths of at least 111 people and injuring 233 others. The violence escalated after government forces attempted to disperse a sit-in protest that had been ongoing for months. Protesters were demanding better services and the release of detainees, leading to a volatile situation that tragically escalated into bloodshed, marking a severe increase in sectarian conflict in the region.

Continue Reading
Technology & Innovation

First YouTube Video Published

April 23rd, 2005 19 years ago

Jawed Karim, a co-founder of YouTube, published a short video titled 'Me at the zoo'. The video, filmed at the San Diego Zoo, features Karim standing in front of the elephant enclosure. In just 18 seconds, he shares his thoughts about elephants and their trunks, marking a historical moment in online video sharing.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

NATO Aerial Attack on Serbian Media Headquarters

April 23rd, 1999 25 years ago

NATO forces targeted the headquarters of Radio Television of Serbia in Belgrade during their military campaign against the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. This strike aimed to incapacitate the Serbian state's ability to communicate and spread information amid the conflict. The attack resulted in significant casualties, including the deaths of journalists and technicians, highlighting the brutal realities of war and its effects on civilian infrastructure.

Continue Reading