Robert FitzWalter, 1st Baron FitzWalter, English baron (b. 1247)
Robert FitzWalter, the inaugural Baron FitzWalter, was a prominent English nobleman who lived from approximately 1247 until his passing on 18 January 1326. His life spanned a pivotal period in English history, during which he served as a key figure within the burgeoning parliamentary system and participated actively in significant military campaigns under the reign of King Edward I.
The Creation of the Barony of FitzWalter
The distinction of being the 1st Baron FitzWalter for this Robert FitzWalter is crucial and refers to the creation of a peerage by writ of summons. This form of peerage became increasingly common during the late 13th century as the English Parliament evolved into a more formal institution. Robert FitzWalter was formally summoned to Parliament by a writ dated 23 June 1295. This summons effectively established him as a hereditary peer, entitled to sit in what would eventually become the House of Lords, marking a significant development in the structure of the English nobility.
- Peerage by Writ: Unlike older baronies held by feudal tenure (based on land ownership and service), a barony by writ was created by a specific royal summons to Parliament. Once summoned and having taken his seat, the recipient's heirs male and, in certain circumstances, female became eligible to inherit the title, provided they were also summoned. This method solidified the concept of peerage as a distinct status.
- Evolution of Parliament: The late 13th century saw King Edward I actively developing the English Parliament into a more formalized institution, regularly including representatives from shires and boroughs alongside the traditional magnates. Robert FitzWalter's inclusion as a Baron by writ highlights his importance within this evolving political landscape and the monarch's efforts to centralize power and administration.
A Life of Service and Influence
As an English peer of the realm, Robert FitzWalter's responsibilities extended beyond parliamentary duties. He was deeply involved in the military and political affairs of his time. His career was marked by loyal service to the Crown, particularly during the formidable reign of King Edward I, often known as "the Hammer of the Scots" for his assertive military campaigns.
Military Engagements and Royal Service
Robert FitzWalter played an active role in the numerous conflicts that defined Edward I's reign, demonstrating his commitment to his feudal obligations and the Crown's interests. He participated in:
- The Scottish Wars of Independence: He was frequently summoned for military service against Scotland, contributing to Edward I's relentless efforts to assert English suzerainty over the northern kingdom. These campaigns were arduous and prolonged, significantly shaping the military strategies and political landscape of the era.
- Campaigns in Gascony: Beyond the British Isles, he also served in continental campaigns, notably in Gascony (Aquitaine), a rich and strategically vital territory in southwestern France that was a source of ongoing conflict and intricate diplomatic maneuvering between the English and French crowns.
- Royal Councils and Governance: His position as a Baron ensured his participation in royal councils, where matters of state, finance, justice, and foreign policy were deliberated. This active involvement underscores his influence and the trust placed in him by the monarch, contributing to the governance of the kingdom.
Family Lineage and Legacy
It is important to distinguish this Robert FitzWalter, the 1st Baron by writ (1247-1326), from his more famous grandfather, also named Robert FitzWalter (died 1234), who was a prominent leader of the baronial opposition against King John and a key figure in the events leading to the sealing of Magna Carta in 1215. The 1st Baron FitzWalter discussed here was the son of Walter FitzRobert and thus continued a distinguished noble line that had been influential for generations.
Upon his death on 18 January 1326, the barony passed to his son, Robert FitzWalter, who became the 2nd Baron FitzWalter. This ensured the continuation of the title and the family's prominent place within the English peerage system for centuries to come, reflecting the enduring nature of hereditary titles.
Frequently Asked Questions about Robert FitzWalter (1st Baron)
- Who was Robert FitzWalter, 1st Baron FitzWalter?
- He was a significant English nobleman and hereditary peer who lived from approximately 1247 to 1326. He is historically notable as the first individual to be formally created Baron FitzWalter by a writ of summons to Parliament, a pivotal development in the English peerage system during the reign of King Edward I.
- What was his primary role as an English peer during the medieval period?
- As an English peer, Robert FitzWalter had multifaceted responsibilities that typically included attending Parliament, advising the monarch on matters of state, and providing military service. He actively participated in various military campaigns under King Edward I, notably in Scotland and Gascony.
- How did he become the "1st Baron FitzWalter"?
- He became the 1st Baron FitzWalter when King Edward I issued a writ of summons to Parliament on 23 June 1295. This specific summons formally established his hereditary peerage, granting him and his legitimate heirs the right to sit in Parliament, thus solidifying his family's position in the English nobility.
- Is this Robert FitzWalter the same person who led the barons against King John during the Magna Carta events?
- No, this Robert FitzWalter (1247-1326), the 1st Baron FitzWalter by writ, is the grandson of the more famous Robert FitzWalter (died 1234). His grandfather was indeed a prominent leader of the baronial opposition to King John and played a significant role in the events surrounding the sealing of Magna Carta in 1215. They are distinct individuals from the same historically significant noble family.