Week 8: Development of Parliament - The Good Parliament

Established in 1376, this documents the growth of state institutions and the emerging role of common people in political processes.

1. Context of the Parliament:

- Convened by the king in London, expressing urgent demands for financial support from the common people.

- The parliament lasted for nearly nine weeks beginning around the octave of St. George.

2. Knights' Response:

- The knights of the shire proposed not to respond to the king’s demands without consulting the magnates, demonstrating the growing assertiveness of common representatives.

- They sought advice from bishops to ensure their replies were well-founded and to avoid potential traps from royal advisers.

3. Formation of Councils:

- With bishops' support, the knights called for the involvement of four loyal barons to lend authority and strength to their position.

- They later included four earls, as they were essential for garnering further respect and legitimacy in their negotiations with the king.

4. Issues Addressed:

- The knights collectively decided to refuse the king’s requests for subsidies until certain abuses were corrected and corrupt individuals removed.

- They expressed concern over heavy tax burdens on common people and a lack of transparency regarding how tax revenues were being allocated.

5. Peter de la Mare’s Advocacy:

- Knight Peter de la Mare emerged as a spokesperson for the commons, showcasing courage and eloquence.

- He brought attention to the excessive financial demands placed on the common people, questioning the loyalty and effectiveness of royal ministers.

6. Duke of Lancaster's Reaction:

- Initially dismissive, the Duke of Lancaster planned to intimidate the knights but was cautioned by his followers about the knights' solid backing.

- Upon his return, he adopted a more conciliatory approach to avoid further conflict with the knights and the public.

7. Charges Against Royal Officials:

- The knights petitioned to remove Lord Latimer from his position due to incompetence and deceit, demonstrating the legislative power the commons were beginning to exercise.

8. Judgment on Latimer:

- Despite various charges against Latimer and Lyons being substantial, the Duke hesitated in delivering harsh punishment, influenced by his own greed and connections.

- Eventually, Latimer was stripped of his office, emphasizing the increasing accountability demanded by the parliament.

9. Succession Planning and Political Power:

- The Duke attempted to suggest laws regarding succession, aiming to restrict royal lineage, particularly against the prospects of Prince Richard II.

- The knights rejected this diversion, focusing instead on pressing substantive issues facing the kingdom.

10. Establishment of a Council:

- The knights proposed a new governance structure, asking for a council of twelve peers to advise the king continuously, ensuring ongoing oversight and integrity in governance.

- Provisions were set forth for the removal of any council member found corrupt or disloyal, aiming to curb abuses of power and increase accountability.

11. Recognition of the Parliament:

- The assembly concluded with petitions for royal confirmation of the decrees made, signifying the growing importance and authority of parliament in English governance.

Conclusion

The document illustrates the evolving political landscape of 14th-century England, marked by greater participation from common representatives and the establishment of mechanisms for accountability in governance. The events of the 1376 parliament reflect a significant shift in the balance of power, with the commons demanding transparency, representation, and reform from the monarchy and its officials.