Author Description
Magna Carta, imposed on King John by his barons in 1215, is widely regarded as the foundation of the British constitution. This is the classic study of the origins of the rebellion which culminated in the events at Runnymede. Holt investigates the causes of the baronial revolt and explores the social and administrative setting of the northern shires and their landed families. Drawing on recent research on border societies, Holt's introduction to the paperback offers new insights into the organization of the northern barons.
Menrva's Summary
THE THESIS
This study investigates the underlying socio-political causes of the baronial revolt against King John that ultimately led to the signing of the Magna Carta in 1215. J. C. Holt, a prominent medieval historian, utilizes extensive archival research to examine the specific grievances and administrative structures of the northern shires. By focusing on the landed families of the north, the author constructs a framework that explains how local border tensions and regional organization catalyzed a national constitutional crisis.
THE SCOPE MAP
What You Will Find
- Detailed analysis of the social and administrative structures of 13th-century northern English shires.
- Examination of the political motivations and landed interests of the northern baronial families.
- Integration of primary source research regarding border societies and regional governance.
- Contextualization of the events at Runnymede within the broader scope of the baronial rebellion.
THE AUTHORITY PERSPECTIVE
Historians and scholars frequently cite this work as a foundational text for understanding the regional complexities of the Magna Carta. Readers often note the academic rigor and the density of the historical analysis provided throughout the volume.
Page Count:
318
Publication Date:
1992-08-27
Publisher:
Clarendon Press
ISBN-10:
0198203098
ISBN-13:
9780198203094
History
Biography
Political History
British History
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