The 27th Earl of Derby is a title in the British peerage, currently held by Edward Stanley. He succeeded to the title in 1994 after the death of his father, the 26th Earl. The Earl's family has a long history, with the title first created in 1672. The Derby family has been influential in British politics and society for centuries. The Earl of Derby is associated with the Stanley family, known for their role in the history of Lancashire and their connections to the British monarchy. The family has also been involved in various cultural and sporting events, including the famous Derby horse race.