The title of Duke of Ireland was created in 1386 for Robert de Vere, 9th Earl of Oxford, the favorite of King Richard II of England. Despite its name, this peerage title is generally considered to have been one in the Peerage of England, and is the first time that a Ducal title was created for someone who was not a close relative of the King. The Duke fell from favor shortly after receiving the title, which was forfeited in 1388.