The Duchess of Cleves refers to a title held by the female ruler of the Duchy of Cleves, a historical region in present-day Germany. The most notable figure associated with this title is Anne of Cleves, who was married to King Henry VIII of England in 1540. Their marriage was short-lived, lasting only six months, as Henry sought an annulment. The duchy itself was part of the larger territory of the Duchy of Jülich-Cleves-Berg during the 16th century. The region played a significant role in the political landscape of Europe, particularly during the Reformation and the Thirty Years' War. The title of Duchess of Cleves has historical significance, reflecting the complex alliances and power dynamics of the time.