BattlefieldsWilliam the Lion and Richard I Treaty of Canterbury 1189
Medieval

William the Lion and Richard I Treaty of Canterbury 1189

1189
Kent, England
Also known as: Quitclaim of Canterbury 1189 · Richard I sells Scottish independence
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Skirmish
Location
Kent, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Forces
Not recorded in historical accounts
VS
Victor
Scotland (William the Lion -- diplomatic triumph)
Outcome
Richard I cancelled the Treaty of Falaise; William no longer Henry II's vassal for Scotland; paid 10,000 marks
The Battle

History & Significance

Richard I, desperate for funds for the Third Crusade, sold William the Lion the cancellation of the humiliating Treaty of Falaise for 10,000 marks. The Quitclaim of Canterbury restored Scotland's independence and abolished the vassal relationship imposed after William's capture at Alnwick in 1174. Richard famously said he would sell London itself if he could find a buyer. For Scotland, the purchase was one of the best investments ever made -- the restoration of independence at the price of gold rather than blood.

Forces Involved

Diplomatic encounter; no pitched forces.

Questions & Answers

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