Nicholas of Ely facts for kids

Nicholas of Ely was an important figure in England during the 1200s. He held several powerful jobs. He was the Lord Chancellor of England, which was like the king's main secretary and legal advisor. He also served as a Bishop in two different areas: Bishop of Worcester and later Bishop of Winchester. On top of that, he was the Lord High Treasurer, managing the country's money.

Nicholas's Early Career

Nicholas started his career as an Archdeacon of Ely. This was an important church position. In 1260, King Henry III chose him to be the Lord Chancellor. This was a very high-ranking job in the government.

However, Nicholas didn't stay in this role for long. In 1261, he was replaced by Walter de Merton. Nicholas had political ideas that supported a group called the Montfortians. This group wanted to make changes to how the king ruled. They believed the king should share more power with a council.

Political Changes and Challenges

Nicholas supported the "Provisions of Oxford." These were rules that aimed to limit the king's power and give more say to a council of nobles. The Montfortians believed that if the king wanted money, he should agree to these changes.

But King Henry III didn't like these rules. He went to the Pope, who said the king didn't have to follow the Provisions. This meant the king could go back to ruling with more power. Because of this, Nicholas and other officials who supported the reforms lost their jobs.

Nicholas Returns to Power

Even after losing his job, Nicholas was still seen as a good leader who wanted reforms. In 1263, he was chosen to be the Lord High Treasurer. This meant he was in charge of the country's finances. Later that year, he also became the Lord Chancellor again.

However, these roles were short-lived. The political situation in England was very unstable. Nicholas lost both of these important government jobs later in 1263.

Becoming a Bishop

Nicholas then moved into higher church positions. Around June 1266, he was chosen to become the Bishop of Worcester. He was officially made a bishop on September 19, 1266. Soon after, he took his place at Worcester Cathedral.

His career continued to advance. On March 2, 1268, Pope Clement IV moved him to an even more important role. Nicholas became the Bishop of Winchester. He was officially welcomed at Winchester Cathedral on May 27, 1268.

Nicholas of Ely served as Bishop of Winchester until his death on February 12, 1280.