William De La Pole was a prominent English nobleman and politician during the 15th century. Born around 1396, he became the 1st Duke of Suffolk in 1444. De La Pole was a key figure in the Wars of the Roses, a series of civil wars for control of the English throne, and he was known for his loyalty to the Lancastrian cause. As a skilled diplomat and military leader, De La Pole held various important positions, including Lord High Admiral. However, his fortunes changed after the Yorkists gained power, leading to his exile in 1450. He was later executed, marking a significant moment in the turbulent history of England.