Edward III Becomes King of England

On January 25, 1327, Edward III ascended to the throne of England following the deposition of his father, Edward II. This event marked a significant turning point in English history, characterized by political intrigue and the eventual establishment of a more stable monarchy under Edward III’s long reign.

Context and Background

Edward II’s reign (1307-1327) was fraught with difficulties, including military failures, political strife, and unpopular favoritism towards certain courtiers, notably Piers Gaveston and later the Despenser family. His inability to effectively manage the nobility and his military defeats, such as the disastrous Battle of Bannockburn in 1314 against the Scots, weakened his position.

The discontent among the English nobility grew, leading to a rebellion led by his wife, Queen Isabella, and her lover, Roger Mortimer. In 1326, Isabella and Mortimer invaded England from France, quickly gaining support and capturing Edward II, who was forced to abdicate in favor of his son, Edward III.

Key Events Leading to the Accession

• 1325: Queen Isabella, estranged from Edward II, travels to France under the pretense of negotiating peace with her brother, King Charles IV of France. There, she forms an alliance with Roger Mortimer.
• September 1326: Isabella and Mortimer land in England with a small army, rapidly gaining support from disaffected nobles and the populace.
• November 1326: Edward II is captured and imprisoned. The Parliament convenes to discuss the king’s fate.
• January 1327: Edward II is formally deposed by Parliament, marking the first time an English king was removed by legislative action.

Edward III’s Ascension

At the age of 14, Edward III was crowned king on January 25, 1327. Due to his youth, the real power initially lay with his mother, Isabella, and Mortimer, who acted as regents. This regency period was marked by continued political maneuvering and unrest.

Aftermath and Significance

• 1327-1330: Edward III’s early reign was dominated by Isabella and Mortimer’s regency, which was unpopular due to their perceived self-interest and mismanagement.
• 1330: Edward III, now 18, asserted his authority by orchestrating a coup against Mortimer, who was executed, and relegating his mother to a more ceremonial role.
• Reign of Edward III: Edward III’s reign (1327-1377) is noted for the restoration of royal authority, military successes in the Hundred Years’ War, and the establishment of the Order of the Garter. His reign also saw the development of the English Parliament and the beginnings of the English Renaissance.

Edward III’s accession and subsequent reign had lasting impacts on the English monarchy, setting precedents for the balance of power between the crown and the nobility and laying the groundwork for future constitutional developments.