Richard & Normandy Flashcards
What happened between Richard and John when Richard returned from the Crusade?
Despite John’s rebellion and invasion of Normandy with Philip II, Richard forgave John, blaming the rebellion on the Barons, and the invasion of Normandy on Philip.
After he returned, Richard forgave John and spent 3 months raising funds in England, before setting off to reconquer Normandy. Explain what followed.
John betrayed Philip II and attacked his forces. By 1196, Richard had, with John onside, reconquered most of Normandy.
By 1196, Richard had, with John onside, reconquered most of Normandy. What tactics did he use to capture the rest of Normandy?
Richard bribed Philip’s vassals/allies to switch allegiance; Philip found himself surrounded by hostiles. He also built the Chateau Gaillard from 1196-8, a massively important strategic structure.
When was the Chateau Gaillard built?
1196-8.
Why did Richard have the Chateau Gaillard built?
It was a key part of his strategy to take back the land in Normandy lost to Philip II while he was on the Crusade.
How was the construction of Chateau Gaillard a strategic decision on Richard’s part?
It was built overlooking the Vexin, the border between Richard’s and Philip’s lands. It was built high up, making it difficult to attack and tunnel under its round walls. Its proximity to Philip’s territory made it a good base for surprise invasions. This included launching attacks to recapture the Vexin, as well as attacking Philip’s castles.
How much did the Chateau Gaillard cost to build?
£12,000 (Richard only spent £7,000 on royal castles in England throughout his whole reign!).
When did Richard defeat Philip’s army? By when did he have control of almost all of the Vexin?
1198, 1199.
Richard, by 1199, had defeated Philip’s army and had control of almost all of the Vexin. What was the main problem he faced and what did this mean?
He had no weapons powerful enough to attack a castle. This meant that he settled for a truce with Philip.
What happened midway through negotiations for a truce between Richard and Philip?
While investigating a castle in 1199, Richard was hit by an arrow and died of an infection in April.
