John Stafford (bishop) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids John Stafford |
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| Archbishop of Canterbury Primate of All England |
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Henry VI enthroned. The leading figure at far left holding a mace/staff/baton with a purse (containing the Great Seal) attached to his waist appears to be the Lord Chancellor, those items being the symbols of his office. Possibly John Stafford (d.1452), Lord Chancellor (1432-1450) and Archbishop of Canterbury (1443-1452). Detail from "Talbot Shrewsbury Book", 1444-45
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| Appointed | 13 May 1443 |
| Enthroned | unknown |
| Reign ended | 25 May 1452 |
| Predecessor | Henry Chichele |
| Successor | John Kemp |
| Other posts | Bishop of Bath and Wells |
| Orders | |
| Consecration | translated 13 May 1443 |
| Personal details | |
| Died | 25 May 1452 |
| Denomination | Roman Catholic |
John Stafford (who died on May 25, 1452) was an important English leader during the Middle Ages. He held two very powerful jobs. He was the Lord Chancellor of England from 1432 to 1450. After that, he became the Archbishop of Canterbury from 1443 until his death.
John Stafford's Early Life and Schooling
John Stafford was the son of Sir Humphrey Stafford of Southwick, a well-known person from Wiltshire. He studied at the University of Oxford. To become a priest, John Stafford needed special permission from the Pope because of his family background. After getting this permission, he became a church leader in several places. These included being a rector in Farmborough and a vicar in Bathampton. He also became a prebendary (a type of church official) at Wells Cathedral.
John Stafford's Important Career Roles
John Stafford began his career in the church and government. In 1419, he was named the Dean of Arches. This was a top legal job in the church. From 1419 to 1421, he also served as the Archdeacon of Salisbury. Later, from 1423 to 1424, he was the Dean of Wells.
He became very important during the time of King Henry VI. In 1421, he was made the Lord Privy Seal. This meant he was in charge of the King's private seal. The next year, he became the Lord High Treasurer. This was a very important role in managing the country's money. From 1432 to 1450, he served as the Lord Chancellor. This was one of the highest positions in the government.
On December 18, 1424, Pope Martin V chose him to be the Bishop of Bath and Wells. He officially started this role on May 27, 1425. Later, in May 1443, Pope Eugene IV made him the Archbishop of Canterbury. This was the most important church position in England. He held this job until he died on May 25, 1452. John Stafford was known for being fair and helpful. He worked well with different groups and was a useful official.
Images for kids
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This is a stone carving of Emma, who was the mother of Archbishop John Stafford. You can find it in North Bradley Church in Wiltshire.
