"Where there is no ruler the people falls". England's road to regicide, 1317-27

The National Archives will be hosting a one day conference at Kew focusing on the tumultuous last decade of Edward II’s reign, a period that culminated in the unprecedented deposition of a post-Conquest English king and his probable murder. In recent years this important period of English history has undergone a resurgence of academic interest. Based heavily upon documents held by The National Archives, this conference will look at three major themes: the nature of Edward’s kingship, the impact of personalities upon events and the reasons, both short and long-term, for Edward’s deposition.

Leading academics will discuss topics such as whether Edward II was a ‘tyrant’, the loyalty of his household knights, the critically important relationship with his Queen, and the social impact that the political turmoil exerted upon the population. There will also be an exclusive opportunity to view key original documents from this crucial decade in English history.

Information on the programme, conference fees and online booking will be available shortly. For further details, please contact the conference organiser.