Fernando Álvarez de Toledo y Pimentel, 3rd Duke of Alba (29 October 1507 – 11 December 1582) is a Spanish general and governor of the Spanish Netherlands (1567–1573), nicknamed "the Iron Duke" by the Protestants of the Low Countries because of his harsh rule and cruelty.

Tales of atrocities committed during his military operations in Flanders become part of Flemish, Dutch and English folklore, forming a new and central component of the Black Legend.