Bernard I de Balliol facts for kids

Bernard I de Balliol was an important baron (a powerful lord) who lived in the mid-1100s. He was based mostly in northern England, but also had lands in northern France, near a town called Abbeville. Bernard was the second known leader of the Balliol family in England, taking over from his uncle, Guy I de Balliol.

Who Was Bernard I de Balliol?

Bernard I de Balliol was a significant figure during a very turbulent time in English history. He was known as an Anglo-Picard baron. This means his family had Norman roots, but he also had strong connections to Picardy, a region in northern France. As a baron, he controlled large areas of land and had a lot of power and influence.

Early Life and Family

Bernard took over his uncle's lands and power sometime between 1130 and 1133. He had at least four younger brothers: Radulf (also known as Ralph), Enguerrand (also known as Ingram), Hugh, and Joscelin.

Bernard was married to a woman named Maud (also called Matilda). Together, they had four sons: Enguerrand (Ingram), Guy, Eustace, and Bernard. They also had one daughter named Hawise. Sadly, his son Enguerrand died before him. Bernard was later succeeded by his son Guy.

A Time of Trouble: The Anarchy

Bernard lived during a period known as the Anarchy. This was a civil war in England that lasted for many years. It was a fight for the throne between King Stephen and Empress Matilda, who was the daughter of the previous king.

During this time, around 1135, Bernard seems to have sworn loyalty (called "homage") to King David I of Scotland. King David had taken control of much of northern England. He did this to support his niece, Empress Matilda, and his son, Henry, who wanted to be the Earl of Northumbria.

The Battle of the Standard

In 1138, King David I of Scotland led a campaign into England. Before a major battle called the Battle of the Standard, Bernard de Balliol and another baron, Robert I de Brus, were sent to try and talk with King David. They hoped to find a peaceful solution.

However, their talks failed. After this, Bernard is said to have officially stopped being loyal to King David. He then joined the English forces.

Although Bernard and his side won the Battle of the Standard, he faced defeat three years later.

Fighting for King Stephen

In 1141, Bernard fought alongside King Stephen at the Battle of Lincoln (1141). This battle was a big loss for King Stephen's side.

In the years that followed, Bernard continued to face challenges. His lands were attacked many times by the Scottish forces. Also, a person named William Comyn, who was supported by the Scots, became the Bishop of Durham between 1141 and 1144. This made things even harder for Bernard in the region.

Building Barnard Castle

Bernard is believed to have founded a new settlement and a castle that were named after him: Barnard Castle. This important castle is located in County Durham. Even though it's named after him, some parts of the earliest castle structure there might have been built a little before Bernard took over the lands.

Bernard's Legacy

Bernard I de Balliol died sometime between 1154 and 1162. He left behind a significant legacy, having played a key role in the politics and conflicts of his time. His family, the House of Balliol, continued to be important in both England and Scotland for many years after him.