Marshal of the Army of God and the Holy Church facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Marshal of the Army of God and the Holy Church |
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![]() Seal of Robert Fitzwalter, first Marshal of the Army of God and the Holy Church
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First Marshal | Robert Fitzwalter |
Last Marshal | Robert Fitzwalter |
Appointer | Elective |
Marshalship began | by 5 May 1215 |
Date of Marshalship lapsing | 8 December 1235 |
The Marshal of the Army of God and the Holy Church was an important title from 1215. It was held by Robert Fitzwalter, a powerful leader. He was a main opponent of John, King of England. Robert Fitzwalter was also one of the 25 barons who promised to make King John follow the rules of Magna Carta.
Robert Fitzwalter was a feudal baron of Little Dunmow, in Essex. This meant he was a lord who held land from the king. He was also the constable of Baynard's Castle in London. A constable was like a commander of a castle. He also had a special family role as the chief banneret of London. This meant he carried the city's main flag in battle.
His fellow barons chose him for this role. He became Marshal when the barons gathered their forces. They officially challenged King John. Robert Fitzwalter kept his title for many years. He died on December 9, 1235. He was buried in the Priory Church in Little Dunmow.
Who Was Robert Fitzwalter?
Robert Fitzwalter was a very important person in English history. He was a powerful baron during the early 1200s. He led a group of nobles who were unhappy with King John. They wanted the king to respect their rights.
Fitzwalter and his allies pushed for changes. These changes led to the famous Magna Carta. This document limited the king's power. It also protected the rights of his subjects.
The Marshal's Role (1215–1235)
The title "Marshal of the Army of God and the Holy Church" was unique. It showed Robert Fitzwalter's leadership. He was the military head of the barons' forces. These forces were fighting for their rights. They believed God and the Church supported their cause.
Robert Fitzwalter became Marshal by May 5, 1215. He held this title until December 8, 1235. After his death, his son did not claim the title. This is why the title of Marshal ended.
Seal | Family | Name | Marshal From | Marshal Until | Why the Title Ended |
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Baron FitzWalter | Robert Fitzwalter | by 5 May 1215 | 8 December 1235 | His son, Sir Walter Fitzwalter, did not claim it. |