Late Medieval England - Week 8

Who was Henry II and what notable foreign policy actions did he take?

Henry II was a king known for his foreign policies regarding Wales, Ireland, Scotland, and France, including establishing overlordship over these regions during his reign.

How did Henry II approach his foreign policy regarding Wales?

From 1157-1158, he acknowledged their loyalty while allowing them local control, establishing himself as their overlord.

What motivated Henry II's engagement with Ireland?

Henry II sought to prevent his noble Richard de Clare from becoming an Irish king and instead received homage from various Irish kings to establish his rule.

What conflict arose between Henry II and Scotland?

Henry II sought to reclaim land from King Malcolm IV, ultimately forcing him to pay homage. Later, he faced challenges from Malcolm's brother, William the Lion.

What significant outcomes did Henry II experience in his conflicts with France?

Due to his marriage to Eleanor of Aquitaine, Henry II controlled extensive lands, more than the French king.

Who were Henry II's surviving sons and what caused familial strife?

Richard I and John were his surviving sons; Eleanor pushed them to rebel against Henry II, leading to conflict and warfare.

What were the key events involving Henry II's sons?

Henry the Young King rebelled and died in 1183, Geoffrey died in 1186, and Richard was initially defeated by Henry in 1190.

What was Richard the Lionheart's role in the Crusades?

He went on the Third Crusade in 1191 and heavily taxed the English to finance it, eventually reaching a compromise with Saladin.

What challenges did Richard face during his reign?

He was captured by Duke Leopold of Austria, and his financial decisions weakened royal power, allowing William the Lion to regain Scottish lands.

How did King John’s rule impact his legacy?

John lost French territories, clashed with Pope Innocent III, and faced revolts leading to the signing of the Magna Carta in 1215.

What were the main provisions of the 1215 Magna Carta?

It included the freedom of the Church, feudal laws about lands, rights of sub-tenants, and regulations for towns and merchants.

What characterized Henry III's reign?

Henry III had one of the longest reigns, reissued the Magna Carta, and faced baronial revolts that led to significant political changes.

What was the significance of the Provisions of Oxford (1258)?

It aimed to limit the king's power, create a council of 15 to run the kingdom, and require election of sheriffs.

What was Simon de Montfort's contribution to English parliamentary development?

His leadership during the revolt and subsequent summoning of the first English Parliament, including knights and common men, set a precedent for representative governance.

Who was Edward I and what was his impact on Parliament?

Edward I, called Edward Longshanks, codified legal structures in Parliament and expanded English territories into Wales and Scotland.

What led to escalating tensions between England and Scotland during Edward I's rule?

The power struggle after Margaret of Scotland's death, leading to conflicts and the eventual rise of Robert I Bruce.

What was the outcome of the Battle of Bannockburn?

The 1314 battle resulted in a significant Scottish victory, securing Scotland's independence from English control.

Describe Edward II's reign and challenges.

Edward II had a strained relationship with his father, married politically, faced civil strife due to favoritism, and was eventually deposed and murdered.

What was the role of Richard II during his reign?

His time was marked by the Black Death, the Peasant's Revolt, and political struggles leading to his abdication.

What major event transpired during Richard II's reign?

The Peasant's Revolt, which saw uprisings against taxation and serfdom, ultimately leading to Richard's temporary promise to reform, which was unfulfilled.