John Chandos (c. 1320-1370)
The Knight of Unyielding Valor
John Chandos, a distinguished English knight and military leader, played a pivotal role during the Hundred Years' War, earning a reputation as one of England's most esteemed commanders. His strategic brilliance, unwavering loyalty to King Edward III, and embodiment of chivalry made him a central figure in the conflict between England and France.
Early Life and Accession
Edward III's early years were marked by political turbulence, and at the tender age of 14, he ascended to the throne in January 1327, following the deposition of his father, King Edward II. Edward II's rule had been marred by controversy, and his forced abdication was orchestrated by Queen Isabella, Edward III's mother, and her lover, Roger Mortimer, who effectively controlled the government during the early years of the new king's reign.
Overthrowing Mortimer and Consolidating Power
As Edward III matured, he grew dissatisfied with the control exercised by Mortimer and Isabella, who were known as the de facto rulers of England. In 1330, at the age of 18, he mustered the courage to assert his authority. In a daring nighttime raid, Edward III's loyal supporters stormed Nottingham Castle, arresting Mortimer and effectively ending his control over the government. Mortimer was subsequently executed for his role in the death of Edward II, and the young monarch took full control of the reins of power.
John Chandos
Early Life and Noble Heritage
Born around 1320, John Chandos came from a family of nobility, hailing from the village of Chandos in Herefordshire, England. His father, Sir John de Chandos, was a close and trusted companion of King Edward III, serving as the King's lieutenant in France and the Captain of St. Sauveur in Normandy. This familial connection proved instrumental in John Chandos' rise to prominence and paved the way for his distinguished military career.
Service to the Crown and Early Military Experience
From an early age, John Chandos demonstrated a keen interest in matters of knighthood and warfare. Raised in his father's prestigious household, he received a comprehensive education in military arts, chivalry, and courtly manners, becoming a squire and eventually a knight in service to King Edward III.
The Hundred Years' War: Battles and Military Exploits
John Chandos' military achievements during the Hundred Years' War were nothing short of extraordinary. He distinguished himself in several crucial battles, demonstrating exceptional leadership and tactical acumen.
At the Battle of Crécy in 1346, Chandos fought valiantly alongside King Edward III and the Black Prince (Edward, Prince of Wales). His strategic counsel and unwavering courage played a pivotal role in securing the English victory against a numerically superior French army. His performance at Crécy cemented his reputation as a formidable knight and commander.
During the Battle of Poitiers in 1356, Chandos again displayed his martial prowess, leading a contingent of knights in support of the Black Prince. The English forces achieved a resounding victory, capturing King John II of France and further solidifying Chandos' reputation as a skilled military leader.
The death of John Chandos
Chivalry and Courtly Life
John Chandos epitomized the chivalric ideal of the medieval knight. He was renowned for his sense of honor, courtesy, and fairness in all his dealings, both on and off the battlefield. His chivalrous conduct and adherence to the code of honor made him a cherished and celebrated figure in both English and French courts, earning him the respect and admiration of his contemporaries.
Campaigns in France and Command in Aquitaine
As a key military adviser to King Edward III, Chandos played a crucial role in the English campaigns in France. He served as the King's lieutenant in Gascony and later as the Captain of Aquitaine, a significant English territory in southwestern France. His capable administration and firm rule over the region contributed to the English foothold in France.
Tragic End and Legacy
John Chandos' illustrious military career and service to King Edward III came to a tragic end in 1370. While leading a raid in the region of Poitou, France, he was killed in action during a skirmish with a French force. His death was a significant loss to the English cause, as he was not only an esteemed commander but also a symbol of chivalry and honor in the eyes of both English and French nobility.
The legacy of John Chandos lived on in the annals of history, remembered as one of England's most exceptional knights and military leaders during the Hundred Years' War. His unwavering loyalty to King Edward III and his dedication to the ideals of chivalry continue to inspire admiration and respect, making him a beloved and celebrated figure in medieval history. The Chandos family's legacy endured, and his name is forever etched in the chronicles of England's martial prowess during the tumultuous Hundred Years' War.