Richard’s rise to power began in his teenage years. In 1169, he was invested as the Earl of Poitou and the Duke of Aquitaine, titles that made him one of the most influential nobles in France. These lands came from his mother, Eleanor of Aquitaine, who had once been Queen of France before marrying King Henry II.

Aquitaine was a vast and wealthy region, but it wasn’t easy to govern. The local nobles were fiercely independent, and Richard had to assert his authority through force. He proved his mettle by leading military campaigns to quell rebellions and defend his territory.

This early experience shaped Richard into the formidable leader he became later in life. By the time he took the English throne, he had already earned a reputation as a skilled ruler and warrior.