Carlisle: A City Steeped in History

Carlisle, located in the northwestern part of England near the Scottish border, is a city with a history that stretches back nearly two millennia. Its strategic location at the confluence of the rivers Eden, Caldew, and Petteril has made it a vital site throughout history—from Roman times to the present day. This article explores Carlisle’s dee

read more

Governance and Administration

Montfort’s governance involved efforts to reform royal administration, curb favoritism, and manage the kingdom through councils and parliaments. He convened the 1264 and 1265 Parliaments to legitimize his rule and gain support. However, his government struggled with legitimacy, lacking broad acceptance. The ongoing civil war drained resources

read more

The 1265 Parliament as a Revolutionary Institution

Historians and popular accounts frequently highlight the 1265 Parliament as a revolutionary institution that laid the groundwork for modern parliamentary democracy. Reality: Although innovative, the 1265 Parliament did not establish a permanent or institutionalized parliamentary system. It was convened under exceptional circumstances and did

read more

Montfort as a Defender of the People against Tyranny

Montfort is often depicted as a champion of the common people, standing against King Henry III’s tyranny and corruption. Reality: Montfort’s rebellion was fundamentally a conflict among elites—disgruntled barons seeking to curb royal power and protect their privileges. The so-called "people" had little agency or influence in this confli

read more