Cardinal Beaufort was a prominent English churchman and politician during the late 14th and early 15th centuries. Born around 1370, he was the son of John of Gaunt, the Duke of Lancaster, and his mistress, Catherine Swynford. He became the Bishop of Winchester in 1404 and was later elevated to the rank of cardinal in 1426. His influence extended into the political realm, where he played a significant role in the Hundred Years' War and the Wars of the Roses. As a cardinal, Beaufort was known for his wealth and power, which he used to support the Lancastrian cause. He was involved in various political intrigues and was a key figure in the governance of England during a tumultuous period. His legacy is marked by his contributions to both the church and the state, as well as his complex relationships with other nobles, including Henry VI and Richard, Duke of York.