The problem of succession

• John had left his nine-year-old son Henry as heir
• In his will, he had entrusted the care of the kingdom to a council of 13 barons given the task of restoring control over England
• John wanted William Marshal to care for Henry and rule for him until he was old enough to rule alone
• There was danger that the rebels would attempt to crown Louis as king, so they rushed to crown Henry
• He was bought to Gloucester and crowned by Peter des Roches, the bishop of Winchester, on 28th October, crowned with a circlet of gold and John had lost the crown