This week in Christian history: Bishop calls for end of Hindu caste system; Puritan leader sails for America
Archbishop tied to the creation of the Magna Carta dies – July 9, 1228
This week marks the anniversary of when Stephen Langton, the Archbishop of Canterbury who helped to create the politically influential English document the Magna Carta, died.
A native of Lincolnshire, England, Langton was said to believe that although kings should be obeyed, they were not meant to rule the world.
Get Our Latest News for FREE
Langton became involved in the growing disputes between English barons and King John when he refused to relinquish control of Rochester castle to the monarch.
According to Medieval historian Sophie Ambler, formerly of the University of East Anglia, Langton was likely one of the authors of the Magna Carta and was a staunch supporter of it.
“In 1225, [Langton] pronounced a broad sentence of excommunication in support of Magna Carta. This meant that anyone – king, royal officer, or baron – would automatically be outlawed from the Church if they violated the Charter,” wrote Ambler.
“When Magna Carta was confirmed in later years, the bishops renewed Langton’s sentence. Langton and his successors were instrumental in promoting and upholding the Charter and, thus, in ensuring its survival.”
