Thomas Wykes (chronicler) facts for kids
Thomas Wykes (born March 11, 1222 – died around 1292) was an English chronicler. A chronicler was someone who wrote down historical events as they happened. Thomas Wykes was also a canon regular, which means he was a member of a religious community, like a monk, living at Oseney Abbey near Oxford.
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Who Was Thomas Wykes?
Thomas Wykes lived during a time when many important events were happening in England. He chose to record these events, making him a valuable historian from the 13th century. His writings help us understand what life was like and what people thought back then.
His Important Historical Writings
Thomas Wykes wrote a long history book called a chronicle. This book covered events from the year 1066 all the way to 1289. It was a very detailed record of English history during that period.
What His Chronicle Covered
His chronicle is especially helpful for understanding the Second Barons' War. This was a big conflict in England where some powerful nobles, called barons, fought against the king. Thomas Wykes wrote about this war from the king's side, which is called a "royalist standpoint." He did not agree with the ideas of Simon de Montfort, who was a leader of the barons.
Wykes's work is also very useful for learning about the time when King Edward I ruled England. He provided important details about King Edward's reign, which was a significant period in English history.
Wykes's Unique Viewpoint
Thomas Wykes's chronicle is connected to another historical record called the Oseney Annals. However, Wykes was an independent writer, especially for the years between 1258 and 1278. This means he wrote his own observations and opinions, not just copying from others. His independent view makes his chronicle a special and trusted source for historians today.
