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      The First Barons' War and Magna Carta reissued

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can explain why Magna Carta was reissued.

      Key learning points

      1. John had Magna Carta annulled.
      2. John's actions led to a civil war.
      3. In 1216 Henry III came to the throne as a child.
      4. Henry III reissued Magna Carta in 1216, without its most radical clause.
      5. The king’s regent, William Marshal, hoped this Magna Carta would mean a better balance between king and barons.

      Keywords

      • Annul - to annul means to abolish or reduce to nothing

      • Treason - treason is when someone betrays their country, government or leader

      • Regent - a regent is a person who rules a country for a limited period, because the monarch is absent, too young or too ill

      • Moderate - moderate is when something is not extreme and therefore acceptable to a large number of people

      • Reissued - something that is reissued is printed or produced again

      Common misconception

      All kings are adults and are the ultimate decision makers.

      Henry III became king when he was nine-years-old. As he was too young, regents were appointed to rule on Henry’s behalf.

      Teacher tip

      The siege of Rochester Castle is a great example of medieval warfare. Once students understand the tactics involved in the siege, task them to take up the role of defender/attacker. Students then discuss what methods and weapons they would use.

      Content guidance

      Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

      Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

      Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

      Supervision

      Adult supervision required

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      How did King John’s disagreement with the Church impact England?

      Correct answer: It led to the Pope becoming the overlord of John and England.
      It led to a period of peace and prosperity in England.
      It had no significant impact on the country.

      Q2.
      Write in the missing word. In 1215, the barons prepared to fight King John, they were led by Robert ...

      Correct Answer: FitzWalter, Fitzwalter, fitzwalter

      Q3.
      In 1215, what did King John do when he realised he could not defeat the uprising against him?

      He continued to resist and fight the barons.
      He requested help from foreign allies.
      Correct answer: He was forced to accept the barons’ demands set out in Magna Carta.

      Q4.
      How did King John approve Magna Carta?

      Correct answer: He sealed Magna Carta with the Great Seal of England.
      He signed Magna Carta with his Great Signature of England.
      There was no way of knowing that he had approved Magna Carta.

      Q5.
      Why are some historians excited about the clause which stated that no freeman could be imprisoned unless they are judged by their peers?

      Correct answer: It is believed to be the start of basic human rights.
      It is believed to be the start of the Church's interference in legal matters.
      It is believed to be the start of feudalism.

      Q6.
      What were the radical clauses in the Magna Carta known as?

      church clauses
      feudal clauses
      king's clauses
      Correct answer: security clauses

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      What does the term "annul" mean in the context of Magna Carta?

      Correct answer: to abolish it completely
      to amend it partially
      to fully support it

      Q2.
      Who was the main supporter of King John in his decision to annul Magna Carta?

      Correct answer: Pope Innocent III
      Philip II of France
      Robert FitzWalter

      Q3.
      What unlucky event happened to John in the Wash?

      He lost a battle.
      Correct answer: He lost his crown jewels.
      His ship sank.
      He was captured by rebels.

      Q4.
      Which event finally ended the First Barons' War?

      Henry III's coronation
      Correct answer: Prince Louis's defeat at Lincoln
      John laying siege to Rochester Castle, in Kent

      Q5.
      Who was mainly responsible for ruling England during Henry III's early reign?

      his mother
      his uncles
      Correct answer: his regents
      the barons

      Q6.
      How old was Henry III when he became king?

      Correct answer: nine years old
      eighteen years old
      twenty-seven years old
      thirty-six years old

      To help you plan your 7 history lesson on: The First Barons' War and Magna Carta reissued, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...