Marcher Earldoms Flashcards
What were the Marcher earldoms?
The Marcher earldoms were new earldoms created by William along the border of Wales, to prevent the threat of Welsh attacks that Edward the Confessor had suffered.
Where were the Marcher earldoms?
The Marcher earldoms were created on the Welsh frontier.
❖The earldom of Chester was created next to north Wales.
❖The earldom of Shrewsbury was situated alongside the Welsh midlands.
❖The earldom of Hereford was adjacent to south Wales.
Who were the Marcher earldoms awarded to?
❖Hugh d’Avranches
❖Roger de Montgomery
❖ William FitzOsbern
Why was Hugh d’Avranches made a Marcher Lord?
His father had contributed 60 ships to William’s fleet, was made Earl of Chester.
Why was Roger de Montgomery made a Marcher Lord?
One of Williams most trust friends who he entrust Normandy to while he was away, was made Earl of Shrewsbury
Why was William FitzOsbern made a Marcher Lord?
Williams closest friend, counsellor and relative
What rights did the Marcher earldoms have?
They could make Norman churches, usually only a right reserved for the King
How did the Marchers Lords have control over the law?
The sheriffs in the Marcher earldoms were answerable to the earl, rather than directly to the king. This gave the Marcher earls almost complete control over the courts and law and order in their regions.
What taxes did they pay in the Marcher earldoms?
Unlike other English earls, Marcher earls did not have to pay tax to the king on their land. This was a reward for loyalty, but also to encourage development of towns and defences.
What powers did the Marchers Lord have that previously only the King held?
They had the power to make castles without the Kings permission
How were the Marcher lords the kings inferiors?
They still owed allegiance to the king, had to provide military service for him, and could not try people for high treason.
