Richard FitzNeal facts for kids

Richard FitzNeal (born around 1130 – died 10 September 1198) was an important church leader and government official. He worked for King Henry II of England and later for King Richard I of England.

A Life of Service

Becoming the King's Treasurer

Richard FitzNeal started his career in government around 1156. His father, Nigel, Bishop of Ely, helped him get a job working for King Henry II. Richard became the Lord High Treasurer, which was a very important role. The Treasurer was in charge of the king's money and finances.

Richard was also related to Roger of Salisbury, who had set up the king's money department, called the exchequer, many years before. King Henry II was good at choosing people for jobs. He trusted Richard, who served as Lord Treasurer for almost 40 years!

Other Important Roles

While working for the king, Richard FitzNeal also held other important positions in the church. He was the Dean of Lincoln. This was a major administrative job in a big church area in England. He also held positions called "prebends" in places like Aylesbury and Chiswick. These were church jobs that often came with an income.

Writing a Famous Book

In 1177, King Henry II asked Richard FitzNeal to write a book about his work. This book was called Dialogue Concerning the Exchequer. It was the first book of its kind in the Middle Ages that explained how a government's money system worked.

The book is a unique source of information about how the royal finances were managed. It also shows how money was collected in the 1100s. In the book, Richard explained that government officials should just follow the king's orders. They were not supposed to decide if the king's plans were good or bad. He wrote that the king's power depended on how much money was in the treasury.

Richard also wrote down a story in his book about the Domesday Book. This was a famous survey of England made by William the Conqueror. The story said the Domesday Book was created so that "every man might be content with his own rights."

Becoming a Bishop

Besides being the Treasurer, Richard FitzNeal was also rewarded with a high position in the church. From 1189 until his death in 1198, he was the Bishop of London. He was officially chosen for this role on 15 September 1189. He became a bishop on 31 December 1189. The Diocese of London is a very important part of the Church of England. It ranks third in importance after Canterbury and York.

Later Years and Death

Richard FitzNeal was replaced as Treasurer in 1196 by William of Ely. Richard FitzNeal passed away on 10 September 1198.