Richard I as king Flashcards
When was Richard’s reign?
1189-99
What was Richard doing before he became King?
Since he believed his father, Henry II, would make his brother John king, he fought against them both alongside Philip II of France.
Why did Richard have a claim to the throne?
He was the eldest son, but the practice of primogeniture was still not very common. However, he was a favourite of his mother, Eleanor of Aquitaine, who held much influence and respect.
How did Richard become king?
In 1189, Richard and Philip II made a series of demands to Henry II, including that he acknowledge Richard as the heir to the Angevin empire. Henry initially rejected these demands but, after Philip and Richard attacked his territory in France, he named Richard his rightful heir.
Why did Richard get the nickname “Coeur de Lion” (Lionheart)?
He was seen as brave, chivalrous and a great soldier, due to his involvement in the 3rd crusade.
What, generally, was Richard like as king - what were his priorities?
He used England as a vessel to raise money for his campaigns abroad; he only spent 6 months in England (3 months before the Crusade and 3 after).
What did Richard do once he was named King?
He’d already agreed to go on a crusade, so he set about preparing to leave as soon as possible.
How did Richard secure his power in preparation for his absence on the crusade?
1) Appointed William Longchamp as his chancellor and justiciar; he was to make decisions in Richard’s interest to maintain law and order.
2) Appeased John and his half-brother Geoffrey by appointing them Count of Mortain (in Normandy) and Archbishop of Canterbury respectively.
3) Banned them both from England for 3 years (the length of time it would take him to return), to stop them revolting.
How did Richard raise money for the crusade?
1) Sold land + titles (sheriffs and earls) to the highest bidders.
2) Court cases.
3) Called 3 scutages.
How much money did Richard raise for the crusade?
£31k.
When did Richard set off on the Crusade?
1190.
When did Richard leave the Holy Land?
October 1192.
What happened to Richard when he left the Holy Land in Oct 1192?
He travelled through France in disguise, but was recognised in Vienna and was imprisoned by the Duke of Austria.
When was Richard released by the Duke of Austria, after a huge ransom was paid?
Feb 1194.
What happened while Richard was encaptured?
John and Philip plotted to seize Richard’s land in England and France. By the time Richard was released (1194), Philip had invaded large areas of Normandy. But most of England had remained loyal, and Richard won back most of his land on the continent.
