Robert Hallam facts for kids

Robert Hallam (also known as Alum or Halam; died September 4, 1417) was an important English church leader. He served as the Bishop of Salisbury and was England's representative at a very important meeting called the Council of Constance. He was also the head, or Chancellor, of the famous University of Oxford from 1403 to 1405.

Robert Hallam's Early Life

Robert Hallam came from a place called Cheshire in northern England. He studied at Oxford University. While he was the Chancellor of Oxford, King Henry IV gave a special pardon to him and everyone else at the university.

In 1406, Pope Innocent VII wanted to make him the Archbishop of York. However, King Henry IV said no to this idea. But in 1407, another Pope, Pope Gregory XII, made him the Bishop of Salisbury in a city called Siena. As a bishop, Robert Hallam helped many churches and holy places in his area by giving them special permissions called indulgences.

Role in Church Councils

Robert Hallam was an important person in the church during a time when there were many disagreements.

Council of Pisa

In 1409, Robert Hallam was one of the people who represented England at the Council of Pisa. This was a big meeting where church leaders tried to solve problems within the church.

Council of Constance

In November 1414, Hallam became the main English representative at the Council of Constance. This was an even bigger and more important meeting. He believed that the council had more power than the Pope, and he worked hard to make changes in the church.

He played a big part in the decision to remove one of the Popes, Antipope John XXIII, in May 1415. However, he was less involved in the trials of Jan Hus and Jerome of Prague, who were religious reformers.

Sigismund, Holy Roman Emperor, who helped start the council, was away for most of 1416. When he came back in January 1417, he was working closely with the English king. Because Robert Hallam was a trusted friend of King Henry V, he became even more important. He even gave the welcome speech to Emperor Sigismund.

Afterward, following King Henry V's instructions, Hallam worked with the Emperor to try and make big changes to the church. They wanted these changes to happen before a new Pope was chosen.

Hallam's Death and Legacy

Robert Hallam died suddenly on September 4, 1417. His death happened while the council was still deciding on church reforms and before a new Pope was elected.

After Hallam passed away, the cardinals quickly chose a new Pope, Pope Martin V, on November 11. Some people believe that the English stopped pushing for church reforms because Hallam died. However, it's more likely that King Henry V had given Hallam special instructions, which Hallam's helpers then used.

Robert Hallam was respected by many for being honest and independent. Emperor Sigismund trusted him. Hallam was buried in Constance Cathedral, where his tomb has a special metal plate made in England.