John III of Cleves was a nobleman from the House of Cleves, born in 1490. He became the Duke of Cleves in 1521 and was known for his efforts to strengthen his territory through strategic marriages and alliances. His reign was marked by political maneuvering during the tumultuous period of the Reformation in Europe. In 1539, John III arranged a marriage between his daughter and William the Silent, a prominent figure in the Dutch Revolt. His rule ended in 1539 when he died, leaving behind a legacy of political intrigue and the ongoing struggle for power in the region.