John Montacute, 3rd Earl of Salisbury, English politician (b. 1350)

John Montagu, 3rd Earl of Salisbury and 5th and 2nd Baron Montagu, KG (circa 1350 – 7 January 1400), stands as a notable figure in late medieval English history. He was an English nobleman of considerable standing, uniquely distinguished among his peers for his unyielding loyalty to the deposed King Richard II, even after Henry IV successfully usurped the throne.

Who Was John Montagu, 3rd Earl of Salisbury?

Born around 1350, John Montagu inherited significant titles and lands, making him a powerful magnate in the English realm. His full aristocratic designation encompassed the 3rd Earl of Salisbury, a prestigious earldom, alongside the hereditary titles of 5th and 2nd Baron Montagu. A further testament to his elevated status and royal favour was his membership in the Most Noble Order of the Garter (KG), England's highest order of chivalry, founded by King Edward III in 1348. This appointment indicated a close relationship with the monarch and recognition of his loyalty and military prowess during the Hundred Years' War, particularly under King Richard II, whose court he frequented and where he held considerable influence.

The Political Turmoil: Richard II's Deposition and Henry IV's Ascent

The period leading up to Montagu's demise was one of profound political instability and upheaval in England. King Richard II, who had reigned since 1377, faced increasing opposition due to his autocratic tendencies, perceived tyranny, and mismanagement of the realm. This culminated in 1399 when Henry Bolingbroke, Duke of Hereford (Richard II's cousin and son of John of Gaunt), returned from exile. Bolingbroke swiftly gained widespread support from disaffected nobles and commoners alike, leading to Richard II's capture and forced abdication. On 30 September 1399, Bolingbroke was proclaimed King Henry IV, marking the beginning of the Lancastrian dynasty and a dramatic shift in English royal power. Many nobles, eager to secure their positions or genuinely disillusioned with Richard, quickly transferred their allegiance to the new king.

Unwavering Loyalty: A Defining Trait Amidst Betrayal

In stark contrast to the widespread defection, John Montagu remained one of the few prominent English noblemen who steadfastly refused to abandon Richard II. His loyalty was not merely symbolic; it was deeply held and ultimately proved fatal. Montagu had been a trusted favourite of Richard II, benefiting from royal patronage and holding important positions. This personal devotion, combined with his belief in Richard's legitimate claim to the throne, fueled his determination to resist the new Lancastrian regime, even when it meant defying the established order and risking everything.

The Epiphany Rising and Montagu's Tragic End

Montagu's unwavering loyalty directly led to his involvement in the "Epiphany Rising," also known as the "Revolt of the Earls." This significant conspiracy, hatched in late December 1399 and early January 1400, aimed to assassinate the newly crowned King Henry IV and restore Richard II to the throne. Montagu, alongside other prominent disaffected nobles like Thomas Holland, Earl of Kent, and Thomas le Despenser, Earl of Gloucester, planned to surprise Henry IV at Windsor Castle during the Christmas festivities. However, the plot was betrayed. The conspirators, including Montagu, were forced to flee, attempting to rally support in the West Country. Their efforts were met with strong resistance from loyalist forces and enraged local populations. John Montagu was captured by a hostile mob in Cirencester, Gloucestershire, and tragically, was summarily executed on 7 January 1400. His death, just months after the Lancastrian usurpation, underscored the brutal realities of political power shifts in medieval England and served as a stark consequence of his profound fidelity to the deposed monarch.

Frequently Asked Questions About John Montagu, 3rd Earl of Salisbury

Who was John Montagu?

John Montagu was a powerful English nobleman, born circa 1350, who held the titles of 3rd Earl of Salisbury and Baron Montagu. He is historically recognized for his steadfast loyalty to King Richard II during the tumultuous period of Henry IV's usurpation of the English throne.

What was the significance of his title, KG?

KG stands for Knight of the Garter, signifying his membership in the Most Noble Order of the Garter, the most prestigious order of chivalry in England. This honour highlighted his high status, close relationship with the monarch (Richard II), and recognition for his service.

Why was John Montagu loyal to Richard II?

Montagu had been a trusted favourite and close associate of King Richard II, benefiting from his patronage and likely holding a genuine personal devotion to the monarch. This loyalty persisted even after Richard's deposition, driven by a belief in Richard's legitimate claim to the throne.

What was the "Epiphany Rising" and Montagu's role in it?

The Epiphany Rising, or Revolt of the Earls, was a conspiracy in late 1399 and early 1400 by a group of nobles, including John Montagu, who aimed to assassinate King Henry IV and restore Richard II to the throne. Montagu was a key participant in this plot.

How did John Montagu die?

John Montagu was captured by an enraged local mob in Cirencester, Gloucestershire, after the Epiphany Rising failed. He was summarily executed by the mob on 7 January 1400, directly as a consequence of his involvement in the conspiracy and his loyalty to the deposed Richard II.