John immediately launched attempts to get his lands back – and ran into the Barons. He does run up a pretty good Navy though. And we hear of Roland the Farter.
The Barons Refuse to fight, 1205
1205 gave John a sneak preview of what life would be like later. Despite his begging and pleading, the Barons would not go to France with him in 1205 to fight for the French lands. There was a genuine feeling that they should not be made to fight abroad. There was also a general feeling of distrust between King and his barons. John relied on his household knights and servants, and was too paranoid to build any trust with his great magnates.
1206 Campaign
But after a winter of travelling round England, John managed to persuade his Barons to fight the following year. And the 1206 campaign is quite successful; John manages to re-establish his authority in most of Poitou.
The English Navy
Under John, the strategic situation changed back to the way it had ben under the Anglo Saxons – now the English Channel was no longer just a river between Angevin lands. To be safe, the king must control the channel. And to give him his due, John does just this. New Galleys are commissioned, squadrons formed, seamen employed, and an administration out around the Navy under William of Wrotham.
Did you mention King John’s half-brother William of Salisbury? I’ve been told that I descend from him.
Am enjoying your podcast.
David, thanks for making this Yanks long commute educational and fun. I have a fascination with the mercer life and community and if you every get the time, I would love to hear your take on the subject. Thanks again!
I would delight in knowing more about Roland the Farter, his son Herbert and the harper who held land from the Earl of Gloucester. Do you recall your sources for any of these tidbits? I only recently discovered your podcast and have slowly devouring it.
Thanks Scott. Sadly, I don’t think we know much more about Roland…no way of making a living though!