John Hotham (bishop) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids John Hotham |
|
|---|---|
| Bishop of Ely | |
| Elected | about 20 June 1316 |
| Reign ended | about 14 January 1337 |
| Predecessor | John Ketton |
| Successor | Simon Montacute |
| Orders | |
| Consecration | 3 October 1316 |
| Personal details | |
| Died | about 14 January 1337 |
| Buried | Ely Cathedral |
| Denomination | Catholic |
John Hotham (died 1337) was an important person in medieval England. He held several powerful jobs. These included being a top financial minister, a chief legal advisor, and a church leader as the Bishop of Ely. For a time, he also acted as the leader of Ireland.
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Early Career and Key Roles
John Hotham came from a family in Hotham, Yorkshire. His uncle, William Hotham, was an important church leader in Dublin, Ireland. John Hotham started his career in Ireland.
Working in Finance
In Ireland, John Hotham became the Chancellor of the Exchequer of Ireland. This job was like being in charge of the country's money and taxes. He held this role until 1310. Later, in 1312, he became the Chancellor of the Exchequer for all of England. He kept this important financial job until 1316.
Defending Ireland
Because John Hotham knew a lot about Ireland, he spent time there during a difficult period. This was when Scottish forces, led by Robert the Bruce's brother, invaded Ireland. Hotham helped organize Ireland's defenses. His strong actions are often seen as key to defeating the Scottish invasion.
Becoming a Bishop and Royal Advisor
In 1316, John Hotham was chosen to be the Bishop of Ely. This meant he became a powerful church leader. He was officially made a bishop on October 3, 1316.
Serving the King
After becoming a bishop, Hotham continued to serve the king. In 1317, he became the Lord High Treasurer of England. This was another very important financial role. He then moved on to an even higher position. In 1318, he was made Lord Chancellor of England. This job was like being the king's chief legal advisor and head of the government's administration. He held this role until 1320.
Changing Sides
John Hotham was close to King Edward II. However, when Queen Isabella successfully invaded England in 1326 to remove the king from power, Hotham supported her. Because of this, he was made Lord Chancellor again in 1327. This time, he served the young King Edward III. He retired from government in 1328.
Later Life and Death
John Hotham died around January 14, 1337. He had been unwell for about two years before his death. He was buried in Ely Cathedral, a grand church where he had served as bishop.
