Loss of Normandy and war with France Flashcards
(20 cards)
When did John lose Normandy to the French?
In 1204, King Philip II of France captured the duchy.
What triggered Philip II’s war against John?
John’s treatment of French vassals and the suspicious death of Arthur of Brittany.
Who was Arthur of Brittany, and why was he important?
John’s nephew and rival claimant to the English throne; his death in 1203 alienated the French.
How did Arthur’s death affect John politically?
It gave Philip II a pretext to confiscate John’s French lands.
Which important stronghold fell to the French in 1204?
Château Gaillard – its loss opened the way to Normandy’s collapse.
What was the impact of losing Normandy on English barons?
Many lost lands and income in France, increasing resentment toward John.
How did John try to regain lost territory?
By launching a campaign in 1214 with an alliance of English, Flemish, and German forces.
What major battle ended John’s hopes of recovery?
The Battle of Bouvines (July 1214), where Philip II decisively defeated his allies.
What were the consequences of Bouvines?
John returned humiliated; it shattered baronial support and led to rebellion.
How did John’s taxation to fund war affect relations with barons?
He imposed excessive scutage and reliefs, leading to baronial revolt.
What was scutage, and why was it controversial under John?
A payment to avoid military service; John levied it 11 times, often without campaigns.
How did John’s loss of Normandy shift his focus?
He became more active in English governance, increasing centralization and oversight.
How did John finance his war efforts?
By taxing nobles, Jews, and the clergy harshly, including a 1207 income tax.
What diplomatic efforts did John make to strengthen his position?
He reconciled with the Pope in 1213, becoming a papal vassal to secure support.
What was the effect of John’s wars on royal prestige?
They eroded trust and presented him as militarily and morally unfit to rule.
What was the Treaty of Le Goulet (1200)?
An agreement between John and Philip II, recognizing John’s titles but undermined by later conflict.
Why did John become known as ‘Lackland’?
For losing Normandy and other territories, as well as his political ineptitude.
How did John’s governance differ from Henry II’s in France?
John failed to maintain vassal loyalty or military defense, unlike his father.
How did the French war contribute to Magna Carta?
It caused barons to rebel, demanding limits on royal power due to failed wars and taxes.
What long-term impact did John’s losses have on English foreign policy?
It marked a pivot away from continental dominance and the collapse of the Angevin Empire.
