BEDFORD, EARLS AND DUKES OF. The present English title of duke of Bedford comes from a line of earls and dukes in the Russell family. In Jan. 15 5o John, Baron Russell, was created earl of Bedford, and in May 1694 his descendant, William, the 5th earl, became duke of Bedford. The title of duke of Bed ford had, however, been previously held, notably by the third son of Henry IV. ; and the earlier creations will first be considered here.