The British History Podcast 470 – Tough Treaty
Mar 14, 2025
Dive into a chaotic historical period where every event seems to intertwine. Discover King Rufus's military ambitions and the strain of his taxing policies on the English people. Uncover the political intrigues amidst warfare and familial conflicts, especially with his brother Duke Robert. Learn about the fallout from the Treaty of Rouen and the shift in Scotland's power dynamic with the rise of Donald III after Duncan II’s fall. This is a time of ambition, strategy, and stark contrasts between rulers and their subjects.
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Rufus's Plan To Conquer Ireland
- Gerald of Wales reports Rufus boasted he'd "make a bridge with my ships" to conquer Ireland.
- Rufus never invaded, likely due to Norman politics rather than divine intervention.
Flanders Treaty Bought Heavy Protection
- Rufus revived a costly alliance with Flanders, promising roughly 400 pounds a year for protection.
- The treaty demanded heavy military aid, hostages, and specific obligations to defend England and Normandy.
Rufus Bribed Norman Lords To Switch Sides
- Rufus capitalized on Count William of Eu's greed and paid him to abandon Duke Robert and join his court.
- Contemporary scribes even called Rufus "seductor Maximus" for seducing nobles with cash and prizes.