When Edward III Turned on His Powerful Regent Roger Mortimer

When Edward III Turned on His Powerful Regent Roger Mortimer

We have been finding out about scandals in history and today I want to learn more about the a dramatic moment in medieval history, the fall of Roger Mortimer.

Roger Mortimer was at one of the most powerful men in England, but his rise to power caused quite a bit of resentment among the nobility. After he helped Queen Isabella to overthrow her husband, King Edward II, in 1326, Mortimer had became the power behind the throne while Edward III was still a teenager. For years, Mortimer effectively ruled the country, he made decisions, granting lands, and rewarding his supporters. He may well have felt justified. To others though, he seemed to just be self-serving, and many people began to worry that he had no intention of ever giving up his control.

Mortimer’s influence grew increasingly unpopular. His accumulation of wealth and titles, including being created Earl of March, had created a great deal of envy and anger among the nobles who had begun to feel pushed aside. Rumours began to spread that he was arrogant and greedy, and his close relationship with Queen Isabella only increased this resentment.  

By 1330, Edward III was at an age where he was ready to take the crown fully. Although he appeared to accept Mortimer’s control, he was in fact secretly gathering a small group of supporters who were loyal to him personally. Mortimer though, was confident in his position, he may not have fully realised just how vulnerable he had become.

8In October 1330, Edward III and his allies planned a coup at Nottingham Castle, they entered the castle through a secret passage with the help of insiders. Mortimer was arrested, and he was reportedly dragged from Queen Isabella’s chambers whilst she made pleas to spare his life.

Mortimer was taken to the Tower of London. He was actually denied a trial by his peers and he was instead condemned by Parliament on a range of charges, including assuming royal authority and enriching himself at the expense of the crown. Edward III was clearly determined to make a clear break from Mortimer. 

On the 29th of November 1330, Roger Mortimer was executed by hanging at Tyburn. Edward III’s then went on to rule in his own right. 

Do you think Roger Mortimer saw himself as a ruler holding the country together, or was he a man who went too far for power?

Image info:

Queen Isabella and her army

Date: 1471-1483