King John of England

Quick Facts: Who was King John of England?

Subject:

King John of England

Known for:

King of England, whose reign saw the sealing of Magna Carta and the collapse of the Angevin Empire.

Born:

1166-12-24

Died:

1216-10-19

Century / Era:

1166s Historical Era Archive

Verified Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

John (Christmastide 1166/7 – 19 October 1216) was King of England from 1199 until his death in 1216. He lost the Duchy of Normandy and most of his other French lands to King Philip II of France, resulting in the collapse of the Angevin Empire and contributing to the subsequent growth in power of the French Capetian dynasty during the 13th century. The baronial revolt at the end of John's reign led to the sealing of Magna Carta, a document considered a foundational milestone in English and later British constitutional history.

Career & Major Achievements

John was the youngest son of King Henry II of England and Duchess Eleanor of Aquitaine. He was nicknamed John Lackland (Norman: Jean sans Terre, lit. 'John without land') because, as a younger son, he was not expected to inherit significant lands.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

He became Henry's favourite child after Henry faced a failed revolt from John's older brothers, Henry the Young King, Richard, and Geoffrey. Henry II appointed John Lord of Ireland in 1177 and gave him lands in England and on the continent.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 1166 (1166-12-24): Birth of King John of England — King of England, whose reign saw the sealing of Magna Carta and the collapse of the Angevin Empire.
2. 1177: 1177 Milestone — Henry II appointed John Lord of Ireland in 1177 and gave him lands in England and on the continent.
3. 1216 (1216-10-19): Passing & Historical Legacy — King John of England passed away on 1216-10-19, leaving an enduring historical legacy.

Notable Quotes by King John of England

“I will have no more than the right to be free, and to have my liberties preserved.” (1215)

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: King John of England

True or False: “True or false: The sealing of Magna Carta in 1215 was a voluntary agreement by King John to modernize English law.”

Answer (FALSE ❌): False. The sealing of Magna Carta was not voluntary; it was forced upon King John by a powerful baronial revolt to quell widespread discontent and rebellion.

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• 1166 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1166
• December 24 (12-24) On This Day — Historical birthdays and events on December 24
• 1216 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1216
• October 19 (10-19) On This Day — Historical events and memorials on October 19

Frequently Asked Questions about King John of England