Edward and the Forging of Britain - The Untold Story

Long gone are the days when Edward, the first of his name, is widely remembered in British history. However, little do people know that his reign marked a pivotal moment in the shaping of Britain. This article seeks to shed light on Edward's reign and how he played a significant role in the forging of Britain.

Edward's Early Life and Ascension to the Throne

Edward, known as Edward the Great, was born in the year 1239 to King Henry III and his wife, Eleanor of Provence. Despite being the eldest son, Edward had to watch his father rule the kingdom for decades before finally ascending to the throne in 1272, after the death of his father.

A Great and Terrible King: Edward I and the Forging of Britain

by Marc Morris (Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4204 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	481 pages

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Edward's reign as king would last for an impressive 35 years, making him one of the longest-serving monarchs in British history. During this time, he would initiate a series of reforms and military campaigns that would forever shape the destiny of Britain.

The Conquest of Wales

One of Edward's most notable achievements was his conquest of Wales, a region that had long resisted English rule. Determined to create a unified kingdom, Edward launched a series of military campaigns that ultimately led to the subjugation of the Welsh people.

But Edward's efforts were not solely focused on exerting control over the Welsh population. He also sought to incorporate Welsh nobles into the English nobility, fostering a sense of unity among the ruling classes. This approach helped in strengthening the ties between England and Wales, creating a firmer foundation for the future development of Britain.

The Wars of Scottish Independence

Edward's influence extended beyond Wales to Scotland, where his involvement in the Wars of Scottish Independence would leave a lasting impact. The Scottish throne was in a state of turmoil after the death of Alexander III in 1286, and Edward seized this opportunity to assert his authority.

He imposed English rule over Scotland, which ultimately led to the famous revolt led by William Wallace. Despite initial setbacks, Edward's forces managed to quell the rebellion and regain control. However, the Scottish resistance persisted, eventually leading to the rise of another national hero, Robert the Bruce.

The subsequent battles between Edward and Robert the Bruce's forces were fierce, but Edward's dream of Scottish submission went unfulfilled. However, his efforts to conquer Scotland inadvertently laid the groundwork for future negotiations and led to the eventual union of the crowns of England and Scotland.

The Model Parliament and Legal Reforms

Edward's reign also witnessed significant advancements in the establishment of governance and legal systems. He summoned what is widely regarded as the first English parliament in 1295, known as the Model Parliament. This gathering included representatives from all sectors of society, marking a crucial step towards inclusive governance.

Additionally, Edward's legal reforms aimed to standardize the legal system throughout England, establishing a more coherent and fair process. These changes not only brought about greater unity within the kingdom but also laid the foundation for future legal advancements that continue to shape the British legal system to this day.

The Legacy of Edward's Reign

Edward's reign was undoubtedly one of great turmoil, marked by conquest, rebellion, and daring ambition. While not all of his endeavors were successful, his dedication and perseverance forever changed the course of British history.

His conquest of Wales and involvement in the Wars of Scottish Independence solidified the concept of a united Britain, laying the groundwork for future political developments. His legal reforms and establishment of the Model Parliament paved the way for progressive governance and an inclusive legal system that still endures today.

Therefore, it is only fair to acknowledge Edward the Great as one of the key architects in the forging of Britain. His lasting contributions deserve recognition, and his story should be shared for generations to come.

A Great and Terrible King: Edward I and the Forging of Britain

by Marc Morris (Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4204 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	481 pages

FREE

The first major biography of a truly formidable king, whose reign was one of the most dramatic and important of the entire Middle Ages, leading to war and conquest on an unprecedented scale.

Edward I is familiar to millions as "Longshanks," conqueror of Scotland and nemesis of Sir William Wallace (in "Braveheart"). Yet that story forms only the final chapter of the king's action-packed life. Earlier, Edward had defeated and killed Simon de Montfort in battle; traveled to the Holy Land; conquered Wales, extinguishing its native rulers and constructing a magnificent chain of castles. He raised the greatest armies of the Middle Ages and summoned the largest parliaments; notoriously, he expelled all the Jews from his kingdom. The longest-lived of England's medieval kings, Edward fathered fifteen children with his first wife, Eleanor of Castile and, after her death, erected the Eleanor Crosses—the grandest funeral monuments ever fashioned for an English monarch.

In this book, Marc Morris examines afresh the forces that drove Edward throughout his relentless career: his character, his Christian faith, and his sense of England's destiny—a sense shaped largely by the tales of the legendary King Arthur. Morris also explores the competing reasons that led Edward's opponents (including Robert Bruce) to resist him.

The result is a sweeping story, immaculately researched yet compellingly told, and a vivid picture of medieval Britain at the moment when its future was decided.