William Hardell facts for kids

This is the coat of arms for William Hardell.

William Hardell was an important figure in London during the 1200s. He served as the Mayor of London and played a key role with the famous Magna Carta.

William Hardell's Early Career

William Hardell started his public service in London in 1207. He was appointed as the Sheriff of the City of London. A Sheriff was a powerful official who helped manage the city and enforce laws.

In 1215, William Hardell was chosen to be the Mayor of London. This important position is now known as the Lord Mayor of London.

William Hardell and the Magna Carta

One of the most significant events in William Hardell's life was his connection to the Magna Carta. This was a very important document signed by King John of England in 1215. It was a peace treaty that set limits on the king's power. It also protected the rights of his subjects.

After the Magna Carta was agreed upon, William Hardell was chosen for a special job. He became one of the "Enforcers" or "Sureties" of the Magna Carta. These people were like guardians. Their job was to make sure King John followed the rules set out in the document.

The original Magna Carta document does not list these enforcers. The first known list of these important people came from a writer named Matthew Paris. He was a historian who lived at St Albans Abbey.