Pronunciation: [djˈuːks ɒv bˈɜːɡʌndi] (IPA) 
The spelling of "dukes of Burgundy" can be a bit tricky for non-native speakers. The word "duke" is spelled with a silent "k" and is pronounced as /djuːk/. "Burgundy" is pronounced as /ˈbɜːrɡəndi/, with the stress on the first syllable. The "u" in "Burgundy" is pronounced like the "ur" sound in "fur" or "her". Overall, the correct pronunciation would be /djuːks əv ˈbɜːrɡəndi/.
The Dukes of Burgundy were a line of rulers who held the title of Duke of Burgundy, a historic region located in present-day France and Belgium. This noble dynasty emerged during the Middle Ages and played a significant role in European history from the 14th to the 15th centuries.
The Dukes of Burgundy initially rose to power as vassals of the French crown, but their influence and territory expanded through alliances, marriages, and strategic acquisitions. Under their rule, the Duchy of Burgundy became a powerful and wealthy state, known for its vibrant culture, strong armies, and extensive trading networks.
The dukes were renowned for their patronage of the arts and lavish courtly lifestyle. They attracted renowned artists, intellectuals, and architects, contributing to the flourishing of artistic and architectural styles like the Burgundian Gothic and the Flemish School.
However, the Dukes of Burgundy were not limited to their realm and had ambitions beyond their borders. They engaged in frequent conflicts and wars, vying for territorial expansion and political dominance. Their military campaigns and alliances impacted the balance of power in Europe, at times challenging the authority of the French kings and the Holy Roman Emperor.
The most prominent Duke of Burgundy was Philip the Good (ruled 1419-1467), who significantly expanded the territorial holdings of the duchy and transformed it into a major European power. His successors, however, were unable to sustain this prominence, and the line of the Dukes of Burgundy came to an end with the death of Charles the Bold in 1477.
