William Longchamp

Timeline

1. 1171–1189London · EnglandHe served in Henry II's court in the 1170s, handling royal charters and administrative affairs. In 1180 he became Dean of Dover, and in 1185 papal chaplain, gradually accumulating both political and ecclesiastical influence that laid the groundwork for his later control of government.
2. 1189–1191London · EnglandAfter Richard I acceded in 1189, he became Lord Chancellor and Bishop of Ely. When Richard departed on the Third Crusade in 1190, Longchamp was appointed regent and Chief Justiciar, monopolizing power. His autocratic style and Norman origins displeased Prince John and the magnates, and he was forced from office in 1191.
3. c. 1165–1170Paris · FranceBorn into a humble family at Longchamps in Normandy, he later studied theology and canon law at the University of Paris, receiving training for a career in the Church and royal administration.