King John's legacy, succession, William Marshal. Condition of England by 1216 Flashcards
(39 cards)
What were John’s final military actions in 1216?
He led sieges across the Midlands and East Anglia, riding up to 30 miles per day despite illness.
John’s determination was evident even in the face of his declining health.
What tragedy occurred during John’s 1216 campaign?
He lost his baggage train — including Crown Jewels — in the Wash estuary’s quicksand. Soon after, he contracted dysentery.
This loss significantly impacted his resources and morale.
When and where did John die?
At Newark Castle on 18–19 October 1216.
His death marked a crucial turning point in the conflict.
What was the impact of John’s death on the war?
With him gone, the main cause of the conflict disappeared. Many rebels reconsidered their support for Louis and turned to the new boy-king, Henry III.
This shift in allegiance was pivotal for the royalists.
When and where was Henry III crowned?
28 October 1216 in Gloucester, as London was still under rebel control.
The choice of location was strategic due to the ongoing conflict.
Who led Henry III’s regency?
William Marshal, appointed Protector by the royal council on 11 November 1216.
His leadership was crucial in stabilizing the kingdom.
How did Marshal stabilize the kingdom?
He reissued Magna Carta in Henry’s name and promised amnesty, winning back moderates from Louis’s side.
This action helped regain support among the populace.
What was the significance of the Battle of Lincoln (20 May 1217)?
Marshal defeated Louis’s forces in a fierce urban battle. Many French knights were captured, and Lincoln was sacked. It marked the turning point in the war.
This battle significantly weakened the French presence in England.
What was the Battle of Sandwich (24 August 1217)?
A decisive naval victory where Hubert de Burgh intercepted and defeated Louis’s reinforcements. Eustace the Monk was killed, and the French fleet was scattered.
This victory further solidified royalist control.
What ended the First Barons’ War?
The Treaty of Lambeth (September 1217), also known as the Treaty of Kingston.
This treaty formalized the end of hostilities.
What did the Treaty of Lambeth agree?
Louis renounced all claims to the English throne and was paid 10,000 marks to depart. He also surrendered remaining castles.
This agreement significantly reduced French influence in England.
What were the long-term results of the war?
The reissuance of Magna Carta in 1217 under Henry III laid the groundwork for future constitutional monarchy. Royal authority was re-established through Marshal’s regency.
The treaty and reissuance of Magna Carta were critical for the evolution of governance in England.
What was the state of England at the time of John’s death in October 1216?
Exhausted and divided by civil war, with many barons in rebellion and the French prince Louis holding much of the southeast.
What key overseas loss had John suffered by 1204?
Normandy and most of the Angevin Empire, depriving the English barons of their continental lands.
Why is Magna Carta considered part of John’s legacy?
Though John tried to annul it, the document survived him and became a cornerstone of English constitutional tradition.
How did John’s governance style contribute to rebellion?
His arbitrary rule, excessive taxation, and favoritism alienated barons and clergy alike, sparking the First Barons’ War (1215–1217).
When and where did King John die?
18–19 October 1216, at Newark Castle.
Who succeeded John and why was his accession acceptable to barons?
His nine-year-old son Henry III, seen as a neutral figure free of John’s political baggage.
Who did John appoint to oversee Henry’s succession?
William Marshal, Earl of Pembroke, a respected knight and loyalist, was named as Henry’s protector.
Why was William Marshal’s reputation crucial?
He had remained loyal to John during the rebellion and was widely respected for his chivalric integrity.
When and where was Henry III crowned?
28 October 1216, in Gloucester (since London was under rebel control).
What was used as a crown at Henry’s coronation?
A simple gold circlet borrowed from Queen Isabelle, since John’s regalia was lost in The Wash.
What title did William Marshal assume in November 1216?
“Rector Regis et Regni” – Protector of the King and Realm, formally appointed on 11 November.
What role did the Church play in Henry’s accession?
The papal legate Guala declared the royalist side holy, framing the war as a crusade against Louis.
