Barbara Villiers, also known as Barbara Palmer, was a prominent English noblewoman born in 1640. She is best known for her long-term relationship with King Charles II of England, which began in the 1660s. Villiers became one of the most influential mistresses of the king and was granted the title of Duchess of Cleveland in 1670. Throughout her life, Barbara Villiers had several children with Charles II, including Charles FitzRoy, who later became the 2nd Duke of Cleveland. Her influence at court was significant, and she played a notable role in the political and social life of the time until her death in 1709.