John of England

John, the youngest son of Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine, is born on Christmas Eve at Beaumont Palace. He is known as 'John Lackland' due to his initial lack of inheritance.

John begins his early education, likely tutored by scholars at his father's court, focusing on Latin, chivalry, and the skills necessary for a prince of the realm.

John's father, Henry II, dies, and his brother Richard I becomes King of England. John supports Richard but also plots against him with Philip II of France.

John accompanies Richard I on the Third Crusade, but he returns early and begins to assert his claim to the throne, challenging Richard’s authority.

John marries Isabella of Gloucester to strengthen his political position, but the marriage is childless and is later annulled on grounds of consanguinity.

After a period of conflict, John reconciles with Richard I, who forgives him and names him heir to the throne, securing his future succession.

Richard I dies without an heir, and John is crowned King of England. His reign begins amidst challenges from his barons and foreign rivals.

John annuls his marriage to Isabella of Gloucester and marries the young Isabella of Angoulême, furthering his political alliances in France.

John loses control of Normandy and other territories in France to Philip II, marking a significant military and political setback for his reign.

Faced with rebellion from his barons, John signs the Magna Carta at Runnymede, a foundational document that limits royal power and establishes legal rights.

John dies of dysentery at Newark Castle, leaving his kingdom in a state of civil war and his young son Henry III to succeed him.