Peter de Rivaux facts for kids

Peter de Rivaux (died 1262) was an important person in the court of Henry III of England. He came from a region in France called Poitou. Peter was related to another powerful figure, Peter des Roches, who was either his uncle or his father.

Who Was Peter de Rivaux?

Peter de Rivaux started his career connected to the church. In 1204, when he was still very young, he was given control over several churches. This was unusual because he was below the age normally required for such roles.

Peter's Early Career in the Royal Court

Despite his young age, Peter became one of the king's chamberlains in 1218. A chamberlain was a high-ranking official in the royal household. He worked closely with King Henry III for five years. During this time, the king was very generous to him.

Peter's Rise to Power

From 1232, Peter de Rivaux held a very important job. He was the Keeper of the Coast. This role was similar to the later Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports, which protected England's important coastal towns.

For a short time starting in 1232, Peter was like King Henry's main helper. He held many positions in the king's household. He was also made a sheriff in 21 different areas of England. A sheriff was a powerful local official. He could even choose other sheriffs to work for him.

Peter's team included other important people like Stephen Segrave and Henry of Bath. Together, they helped the king manage a lot of the royal money. Peter also served as the Lord High Treasurer from January 1233 to 1234. This job meant he was in charge of the king's money.

Why Did Peter Lose Power?

In April 1234, Peter de Rivaux suddenly lost his powerful position. This happened after the death of Richard Marshal, 3rd Earl of Pembroke. Many people blamed Peter des Roches for this death.

Unpopularity and Exile

The people from Poitou, like Peter de Rivaux, were not popular with the English nobles. Because of this, Peter de Rivaux and his friends were called traitors. Bristol Castle, an important fortress, was taken away from him.

Peter was told he had to give up his worldly possessions. He was sent to the Tower of London. After his release, he was banished from the king's court. He had to go to a safe place in Winchester.

Peter's Return to Favor

Peter de Rivaux's time out of favor did not last long. Soon, King Henry III asked him to return to Westminster. He went back to working in the royal household.

By 1251, all his debts were forgiven. King Henry, his old friend, had pardoned him. On July 16, 1255, Peter was given a new important job. He became a Baron of the Exchequer. This meant he worked in the law courts, dealing with royal finances.

For a short time, he was even made Treasurer of all England again. Peter de Rivaux likely died in 1262. By then, he had recovered his lands near Winchester.