Born as youngest son of Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine. Called Lackland as had no inheritance initially.

Father designated him Lord of Ireland. First title of significance for the youngest prince.

Led disastrous expedition to Ireland. Offended Irish nobles and failed to establish authority.

Betrayed dying father by joining brother Richard's rebellion. Henry II died heartbroken at sons' treachery.

Crowned after Richard's death in France. Inherited vast Angevin Empire but faced immediate challenges.

Married teenage Isabella after annulling first marriage. Union sparked conflict with French king.

French king Philip conquered Normandy and most continental possessions. Greatest territorial loss in Angevin history.

Disputed papal authority over Canterbury appointment. Beginning of long ecclesiastical conflict.

Pope banned church services throughout England. Churches closed, sacraments suspended for six years.

Surrendered England as papal fief to avoid invasion. Humiliating submission but gained powerful ally.

Allied forces crushed by French king Philip. Final end to hopes of recovering continental lands.

Forced by rebellious barons to seal charter of liberties. Foundation document of constitutional government.

Civil war erupted after John repudiated Magna Carta. Barons invited French prince to claim throne.

Royal baggage train lost crossing tidal estuary. Crown jewels and treasure swallowed by incoming tide.

Died of dysentery during civil war campaign. Nine-year-old son Henry III succeeded to troubled kingdom.

Despite his failures, Magna Carta became cornerstone of English law. Principles influenced constitutions globally.