Death of King John

Timeline

1. 1216central England · EnglandDuring the First Barons' War, King John was forced to abandon London after Prince Louis's invasion and led his army on a campaign of devastation through rebel-held lands in central and eastern England. Years of campaigning, long marches, and possible food poisoning rapidly worsened his health, and he finally withdrew to Newark Castle.
2. 1216Newark Castle · NottinghamshireBetween October 18 and 19, 1216, King John died of illness at Newark Castle, aged about forty-nine. The cause of death is traditionally attributed to dysentery, though food poisoning has also been suggested. His body was subsequently taken to Worcester Cathedral for burial.
3. 1216Gloucester · GloucestershireAfter John's death, his young son Henry, aged nine, was swiftly enthroned with the support of leading ministers such as William Marshal. Because London was still held by Prince Louis, the coronation was moved to Gloucester Abbey, and the regency government promptly reorganized its military and diplomatic efforts to continue the resistance.