King John of England

John was King of England from 1199 until his death in 1216. He was the youngest son of King Henry II of England and Duchess Eleanor of Aquitaine. Known as John Lackland, he was not expected to inherit significant lands but became his father's favorite after his brothers' failed revolt.

In 1177, John was appointed Lord of Ireland and received lands in England and on the continent. During his brother Richard I's reign, John attempted a rebellion while Richard was on the Third Crusade. He was proclaimed king after Richard's death in 1199.

John's reign saw the loss of the Duchy of Normandy and most of his French lands to King Philip II of France. This collapse of the Angevin Empire contributed to the rise of the French Capetian dynasty. John attempted to regain these lands through military campaigns and alliances.

His reign included disputes with the church, including a conflict with Pope Innocent III over the Archbishop of Canterbury's election. This led to a Papal Interdict and John's excommunication, which was resolved in 1213. His fiscal policies and treatment of nobles led to a baronial revolt.

The baronial revolt resulted in the sealing of Magna Carta in 1215, a foundational document in English constitutional history. Neither side adhered to its terms, leading to civil war. The barons were supported by Prince Louis of France, but the conflict ended in a stalemate.

John's reign ended with his death from dysentery in 1216 while on campaign in eastern England. His supporters, including his son Henry III, eventually defeated the rebel barons and Prince Louis.

John died at the age of 49 from dysentery and was buried in Worcester Cathedral. He was succeeded by his son, Henry III.