 The founder of what would become the County of Lippe (1528–1789), then the Principality of Lippe (1789–1918) was Bernhard I, who received a grant of territory from Lothair III in 1123.Bernhard I assumed the title of "Edler Herr zu Lippe" (noble Lord to Lippe).The history of the dynasty and its further acquisitions of land really began with Bernard II.