The British Peerage

The British peerage is a hierarchical system of noble titles representing aristocratic rank and social status. It traditionally includes five main ranks: Duke, Marquess, Earl, Viscount, and Baron. These titles are often hereditary, passing from generation to generation, though some are granted for life. Peers may have held land and political influence historically, and they are members of the House of Lords, the UK's upper parliamentary chamber, contributing to governance. The peerage reflects historical social structures but now mainly carries ceremonial significance, with some titles inherited and others bestowed by the Crown.