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What's the difference between a baron, a duke, and an earl?

Question #29083. Asked by Jerry.
Last updated Aug 11 2014.

Nzewi_kene
Answer has 4 votes
Nzewi_kene

Answer has 4 votes.
Baron, Duke and Earl are titles given to respected men of nobility in most European Countries. Their differences are stated below in terms of definition:
- A Baron is a nobleman of the "lowest rank". In Britain, barons use the title 'Lord'; in other countries they use the title 'Baron'.
- A Duke is a nobleman of the "highest rank". He can also be referred to as a male ruler of a small independent state.
- An Earl is an nobleman of "high rank".
Considering the definitions given, the hierarchy of nobility is in the order: Baron - Earl - Duke (Can be best remembered as BED).

Aug 11 2014, 8:56 PM
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briarwoodrose star
Answer has 5 votes
Currently Best Answer
briarwoodrose star
17 year member
175 replies avatar

Answer has 5 votes.

Currently voted the best answer.
The mnemonic "Do Men Ever Visit Boston" helps in remembering in descending order of Duke, Marquess, Earl, Viscount, Baron.

These are the 5 ranks of peer in the U.K.

link http://wiki.answers.com/Q/Which_is_the_order_of_rank_duke_earl_baron_lord_viscount_marquis

Aug 11 2014, 11:28 PM
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