The Earl of Essex is a title in the English peerage, first created in 1550. The most famous holder of this title was Robert Devereux, the 2nd Earl of Essex, who was a prominent figure during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. He was known for his military exploits and his close relationship with the queen, which eventually turned sour, leading to his downfall. The title has been held by various individuals over the centuries, with the current holder being the Earl of Essex since 1984. The earldom is associated with the county of Essex in England and has a rich history tied to the English nobility and politics.