Relations with John and the Barons Flashcards
(13 cards)
Why was John’s accession in 1199 initially supported by the barons?
He was preferred over his nephew Arthur of Brittany, who was young and considered unstable. John’s mature age and English background made him a safer choice—at first.
What was the significance of John’s nickname ‘Lackland’?
It symbolized his weak legitimacy and inability to retain lands, especially in France. This name undermined his authority and fostered suspicion among the barons.
What event in 1205 signaled rising baronial defiance against John?
Many barons refused to support John’s campaign to retake Normandy, forcing him to send only a small force. This refusal broke with feudal custom and signaled growing unrest.
How did John abuse the system of scutage between 1199 and 1214?
He levied scutage 11 times in 17 years—more than his three predecessors combined. Often it was demanded without any campaign, breaking feudal expectations and angering nobles.
What was the 1207 ‘thirteenth’ tax, and why was it controversial?
It was a tax on income and movable goods that raised around £60,000—an enormous amount. John also tallaged the Jews for £44,000 in 1210, indirectly pressuring Christian debtors. These fiscal policies bred deep resentment.
How did the Church conflict between 1208–1213 impact John’s baronial support?
John’s refusal to accept Stephen Langton led to England being placed under Interdict and his own excommunication. He seized Church lands, alarming barons and clerics who feared divine punishment.
What was the William de Braose affair (1210), and why did it matter?
De Braose, once favored by John, fell from grace over debts and rumors that his wife accused John of murdering Arthur. John seized his lands, then captured and allegedly starved his wife and son. This brutality horrified the barons.
What happened in the 1212 baronial conspiracy?
Robert FitzWalter and Eustace de Vesci allegedly plotted to assassinate John, citing personal and political grievances. When discovered, they fled abroad, deepening baronial mistrust of the king.
Why did barons resent John’s reliance on ‘new men’?
John promoted foreign mercenaries and low-status individuals like Falkes de Breauté and Gérard d’Athée. Traditional barons felt sidelined and alienated by this exclusive inner circle.
What was the impact of the 1214 Battle of Bouvines?
John’s defeat in France discredited him. The heavy taxation he had imposed to fund the campaign seemed wasted, and northern barons began refusing to pay further aid, hardening opposition.
What key event happened in spring 1215 as rebellion grew?
Around 39 barons renounced their fealty, seized London, and invoked Henry I’s Charter of Liberties. Their demands centered on restoring traditional rights and limiting royal abuses.
What was the significance of Magna Carta (15 June 1215)?
It was a peace treaty guaranteeing baronial rights and limiting royal power. Clause 61 established a council of 25 barons to enforce the charter—an unprecedented check on the monarchy.
Why did Magna Carta fail to end conflict?
John had no intention of honoring it. By August 1215, he secured a papal annulment, claiming it was signed under duress. This betrayal led directly to the First Barons’ War.
