Was Robin Hood real?
Robin Hood was most likely a legendary figure rather than a real person. Stories of the outlaw who robbed from the rich and gave to the poor appear in ballads from the 1400s, but no historical person has been clearly identified as Robin Hood.
The earliest surviving ballads describe Robin Hood as a yeoman outlaw living in Sherwood Forest or Barnsdale in Yorkshire. He fought against the Sheriff of Nottingham and corrupt officials.
Over time, the stories added characters such as Maid Marian, Friar Tuck, Little John and Will Scarlet.
Possible inspirations
Historians have found records of outlaws called Robin Hood or Robehod in the 1200s and 1300s, but the name may have become a common nickname for outlaws.
In later versions, Robin Hood was portrayed as a nobleman who lost his lands, and his story was set during the reign of Richard the Lionheart.
Nottingham and Sherwood Forest celebrate the legend with statues, festivals and visitor centers. The Major Oak in Sherwood Forest is said to be his hideout.
Robin Hood has appeared in countless books, films and television series, making him one of the most famous folk heroes in the world.