Ralph Basset (died 1265) facts for kids

Ralph Basset was an important English leader who lived in the 1200s. He was known for being a strong supporter of a group of powerful nobles who challenged the king.

Ralph Basset: A Leader in Challenging Times

Ralph Basset was a powerful landowner, also called a lord, from a place called Drayton in Staffordshire, England. During his time, there was a lot of disagreement between King Henry III and many of his nobles. These nobles wanted more say in how the country was run. Ralph Basset chose to join this group of nobles, who were often called the "baronial party."

Working for Peace and Parliament

Because Ralph Basset was trusted by the nobles, they gave him an important job. On June 7, 1264, he was named custos pacis, which means "keeper of the peace," for the areas of Shropshire and Staffordshire. His job was to help keep order and solve problems in these regions. Later that same year, on December 4, 1264, he was called to a special meeting called a parliament. This parliament was organized by Simon de Montfort, who was the main leader of the nobles. Ralph Basset was known as Ralph Basset "de Drayton" at this meeting.

The Battle of Evesham

The disagreements between the king and the nobles eventually led to a big fight. On August 4, 1265, a major battle took place called the Battle of Evesham. Ralph Basset fought bravely alongside Simon de Montfort. During the battle, Simon de Montfort urged Ralph Basset to escape and save himself, but Ralph Basset refused to leave his leader. Sadly, Ralph Basset was killed in the battle, fighting until the very end.

What Happened After

After Ralph Basset died, his lands were taken away because he had fought against the king. This was called "forfeiture for rebellion." However, his lands were later given back to his wife, Margaret. This happened because Margaret's father, Roger de Someri, had supported the king, making him a "royalist." Ralph Basset had two children: a son also named Ralph Basset, who became a lord himself, and a daughter named Maud, who married John Grey, 2nd Baron Grey de Wilton.