John de Stratford
John de Stratford was a prominent Archbishop of Canterbury, Bishop of Winchester, and held significant political offices including Treasurer and Chancellor of England. He played a crucial role in the political landscape of England during the reigns of Edward II and Edward III, advocating for church liberties and constitutional principles. His legacy includes significant legislative work and the founding of a chantry college in his native Stratford-upon-Avon.
Key Facts
- ›Served as Archbishop of Canterbury from 1333 to 1348.
- ›Held the office of Chancellor of England three times.
- ›Was a key figure in the deposition of Edward II and supported Queen Isabella's partisans.
- ›Advocated for the liberties of the English Church and constitutional principles.
- ›Founded a chantry college in Stratford-upon-Avon.
- Drew Up Detailed Ordinances For the Conduct of the Court of Canterbury In 1342.
- Issued Three Sets of Provincial Constitutions Between 1341 and 1343.
- Founded A Chantry College In Stratford-Upon-Avon.
- Circulated the Fourth of the Statutes of 1340 As A 'Charter of Liberties'.
- Acted As President of the Council During Edward Iii's Absence From England In 1345 and 1346.
About John de Stratford
John de Stratford (c. 1275 – 1348)
John de Stratford was a significant English churchman and statesman who served as Archbishop of Canterbury from 1333 until his death in 1348. His career spanned multiple high-profile roles, including Bishop of Winchester, Treasurer of England, and most notably, Chancellor of England on three separate occasions. Born into the landed Stratford family of Stratford-on-Avon around 1275, he pursued higher education, earning a doctorate in civil law from Oxford by 1312.
Life and Historical Context
Stratford's early career saw him serve various ecclesiastical positions, including archdeacon of Lincoln and dean of the court of arches, before his appointment as Bishop of Winchester in 1323. He was deeply involved in the political upheavals of the era, notably supporting Queen Isabella's faction and playing a role in the deposition of Edward II in 1327. Under Edward III, Stratford became a key member of the royal council and a significant political ally, particularly during the period following Roger Mortimer's fall from power.
Major Contributions
As Chancellor, Stratford was Edward III's most prominent adviser for a decade. He was a notable legislator, issuing detailed ordinances for the court of Canterbury and provincial constitutions focused on ecclesiastical administration and the preservation of church liberties. He was also a benefactor to Eastbridge Hospital and founded a chantry college in his native Stratford-upon-Avon. Despite facing political challenges and temporary disfavour with Edward III, he was instrumental in establishing the principle that peers should be tried in full parliament.
Legacy
Stratford's influence extended to advocating for 'Lancastrian' principles, emphasizing the importance of parliament. He was a firm defender of the liberties of the English Church, famously circulating statutes of 1340 as a 'charter of liberties'. While his ambition is acknowledged, his underlying convictions, particularly his concern for peace and church rights, are also noted. His reasoned defence in 1340-41 is credited with teaching Edward III a valuable lesson about due process. He died in 1348 at his manor of Mayfield, Sussex, and was buried in Canterbury Cathedral.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What were John de Stratford's main political roles?
John de Stratford held several high political offices, including Bishop of Winchester, Treasurer of England, and Chancellor of England on three separate occasions. He was also a member of the royal council and a prominent adviser to Edward III.
What was John de Stratford's role in the deposition of Edward II?
In 1327, John de Stratford joined Queen Isabella's partisans and drew up the six articles against Edward II. He was among those who visited the captive king to urge his abdication in favour of his son.
What were John de Stratford's contributions to the English Church?
Stratford was a staunch defender of the liberties of the English Church. He issued provincial constitutions aimed at ecclesiastical administration and discipline, and to preserve church liberties. He was also a benefactor to Eastbridge Hospital and founded a chantry college in his hometown.
When did John de Stratford become Archbishop of Canterbury?
John de Stratford was appointed Archbishop of Canterbury on November 3, 1333. He resigned the chancellorship the following year but continued to hold significant influence in church and state affairs.
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