Henry III of England

Henry III, also known as Henry of Winchester, was born on 1 October 1207 and became King of England, Lord of Ireland, and Duke of Aquitaine from 1216 until his death in 1272. Ascending to the throne at the age of nine during the First Barons’ War, his forces defeated the rebels at the battles of Lincoln and Sandwich in 1217. Henry adhered to the Great Charter of 1225, which limited royal power and protected baronial rights. His early rule saw the re-establishment of royal authority post-war, and he later assumed personal rule, investing in his favorite residences and marrying Eleanor of Provence, with whom he had five children. Known for his piety, Henry held lavish religious ceremonies and was devoted to Edward the Confessor as his patron saint. His reign saw attempts to reclaim lands in France, leading to the Battle of Taillebourg and a focus on diplomacy thereafter.

By 1258, Henry’s rule was increasingly unpopular due to failed foreign policies and domestic issues, resulting in the Provisions of Oxford and a temporary baronial government. After a brief reconciliation, conflict resumed in the Second Barons’ War, where Henry was defeated and taken prisoner at the Battle of Lewes. He was freed by his son Edward, who defeated Simon de Montfort at the Battle of Evesham. Henry’s later years were marked by efforts to maintain stability and his strong religious convictions. His lengthy reign ended in 1272, leaving Edward as his successor. He was buried in Westminster Abbey, having extensively rebuilt it during his reign.