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

John Montagu, a distinguished English nobleman, held the esteemed titles of 3rd Earl of Salisbury and also the 5th and 2nd Baron Montagu. Born around 1350, his life culminated tragically on 7 January 1400. A Knight of the Garter (KG), a prestigious order of chivalry, Montagu was a notable figure in late 14th-century England, primarily remembered for his unwavering and exceptional loyalty to King Richard II, particularly during the tumultuous period surrounding Henry IV's ascension to the throne.

As the 3rd Earl of Salisbury, John Montagu commanded significant influence and landholdings, placing him among the most powerful aristocrats of his era. The distinction of being the "5th and 2nd Baron Montagu" reflects different creations or inheritances of the barony, underscoring the complex lineage and accumulated dignities within his noble family. His membership in the Order of the Garter signified not only royal favour but also his prowess, honour, and adherence to the chivalric ideals of medieval England, establishing him as a trusted and prominent member of Richard II's inner circle.

The political landscape of England at the close of the 14th century was fraught with tension, culminating in the deposition of King Richard II in September 1399. Richard's increasingly autocratic rule and the alienation of many powerful nobles led to his usurpation by Henry Bolingbroke, who subsequently became King Henry IV. While the majority of the English peerage, sensing a shift in power, defected to Henry IV, John Montagu conspicuously chose to remain steadfastly loyal to the deposed Richard II. This steadfast allegiance made him one of the very few high-ranking noblemen who did not abandon the legitimate, albeit overthrown, monarch.

Montagu's unwavering loyalty ultimately led to his direct involvement in the 'Epiphany Rising', also known as the 'Revolt of the Earls'. This conspiracy, which unfolded in early January 1400, aimed to assassinate the newly crowned King Henry IV and restore Richard II to the throne. John Montagu was a principal orchestrator and participant in this ill-fated plot, alongside other loyalists such as Thomas Holland, Earl of Kent, and Thomas le Despenser, Earl of Gloucester. The conspirators planned to surprise Henry IV at Windsor Castle during the Feast of the Epiphany, but their plot was discovered, forcing them to flee.

Tragically, the Epiphany Rising quickly collapsed. As the rebels dispersed, John Montagu was captured by an angry mob in Cirencester, Gloucestershire, and was summarily lynched on 7 January 1400. His swift and violent death, without trial, underscored the volatile nature of the political transition and the harsh consequences faced by those who challenged the new Lancastrian regime. Montagu's fate serves as a stark reminder of the perils of political dissent and the deep divisions within the English nobility during this pivotal moment in English history.

John Montagu's story remains a compelling narrative of devotion and resistance against overwhelming odds. His life and death are intrinsically linked to one of the most significant periods of political upheaval in medieval England, marking the end of the direct Plantagenet line through Richard II and the beginning of the Lancastrian dynasty under Henry IV. He is remembered as a symbol of unwavering loyalty in the face of profound political change.

Frequently Asked Questions about John Montagu

Who was John Montagu?

John Montagu was a prominent English nobleman born around 1350, who held the titles of 3rd Earl of Salisbury and Baron Montagu. He was also a Knight of the Garter and is historically significant for his profound loyalty to the deposed King Richard II, a stance that ultimately led to his death on 7 January 1400.

What was the 'Epiphany Rising'?

The 'Epiphany Rising', or 'Revolt of the Earls', was a conspiracy in early January 1400 by several English noblemen, including John Montagu, who remained loyal to the deposed King Richard II. Their aim was to assassinate the new King Henry IV and restore Richard to the throne. The plot failed, leading to the capture and execution of its key participants.

Why was John Montagu loyal to Richard II?

While historical records don't explicitly detail the personal reasons for his steadfast loyalty, John Montagu was a long-standing favourite and trusted counsellor of King Richard II, receiving numerous grants and honours. His loyalty likely stemmed from a combination of personal affection, political alignment, and a deep-seated belief in Richard II's legitimate claim to the throne, even after his deposition.

How did John Montagu die?

John Montagu was captured by a mob in Cirencester, Gloucestershire, on 7 January 1400, following the failure of the Epiphany Rising. He was subsequently lynched by the angry townspeople, rather than being brought to formal trial by Henry IV's government.