A powerful nobleman who served as a close advisor to King Richard II of England and played a key role in the Lords Appellant's rebellion against the king's tyranny. He was eventually beheaded for his involvement in the rebellion.
Edmund FitzAlan, 9th Earl of Arundel, is renowned for his pivotal role in shaping the course of medieval English history, particularly during the tumultuous reign of King Edward II. As a powerful nobleman, military commander, and diplomat, FitzAlan navigated the treacherous waters of royal politics, earning a reputation as a shrewd strategist and cunning leader.
Born circa 1285, Edmund FitzAlan was the son of Richard FitzAlan, 8th Earl of Arundel, and Alice de Saluzzo. Through his father, he inherited the earldom of Arundel, as well as substantial lands and properties in England and Wales. His family's long-standing connections to the royal court and influential nobles ensured FitzAlan's privileged upbringing and access to power.
FitzAlan's ascension to prominence began during the reign of King Edward I, when he served as a trusted advisor and military commander. He distinguished himself in the wars against Scotland, notably in the Battle of Falkirk (1298), where he fought alongside the king. This experience earned him recognition and respect, paving the way for his later role as a key figure in English politics.
FitzAlan's relationship with King Edward II, however, was marked by tension and conflict. The king's favoritism towards Piers Gaveston, an upstart nobleman, prompted widespread discontent among the nobility, including FitzAlan. In 1310, he joined the Lords Ordainers, a group of powerful nobles seeking to reform the government and limit the king's power. This led to FitzAlan's exile and the temporary confiscation of his estates.
Despite these setbacks, FitzAlan continued to exercise significant influence, particularly in the realm of diplomacy. He played a crucial role in brokering the Treaty of Leake (1318), which temporarily restored peace between the king and his rebellious nobles. This achievement solidified his reputation as a master diplomat and strategist.
FitzAlan married Alice de Warenne, with whom he had several children, including Richard, his successor as 10th Earl of Arundel. His personal life was marked by a strong sense of loyalty and duty, as well as a deep religiosity, evidenced by his generous patronage of religious institutions.
Edmund FitzAlan's enduring legacy lies in his adaptability, strategic prowess, and tenacity in the face of adversity. As a leader, he navigated the complexities of medieval politics with ease, leaving an indelible mark on the course of English history.
| 1285 | Born |
| 1298 | Fought in the Battle of Falkirk |
| 1310 | Joined the Lords Ordainers and was exiled |
| 1318 | Brokered the Treaty of Leake |
| 1326 | Died |
Born in 1367
The last king of the House of Plantagenet, deposed in a coup, known for his extravagance and tyranny, leading to his downfall and the rise of the Lancastrian dynasty.
Born in 1133
King of England from 1154 to 1189, known for establishing a strong centralized government, reforming the English church, and his tumultuous relationships with Thomas Becket and his sons.
Born in 1386
Led a victorious English army in the Battle of Agincourt, a major English victory in the Hundred Years' War, and was a popular king who strengthened the English monarchy.
Born in 1340
A powerful and wealthy medieval English nobleman, known for his immense influence on English politics and his role in the Hundred Years' War. He was also a patron of the arts and a founder of Trinity College, Cambridge.
Born in 1330
The eldest son of King Edward III, he was a renowned military leader and heir to the English throne, famous for his victories in the Hundred Years' War, particularly the Battle of Poitiers. He was also known for his chivalry and founding the Order of the Garter.
