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Why did war break out between Edward I and Philip IV of France?
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Edward I
Edward I, watercolour, 15th century; in the British Library (Cotton MS. Julius E. IV).
War between Edward I and Philip IV of France broke out primarily due to long-standing jurisdictional disputes over the duchy of Gascony, which Edward held as a vassal of the French king.12
Tensions escalated due to several key factors:
- French Intervention: The French kings frequently used their suzerainty over Gascony to intervene in the duchyâs internal affairs, encouraging local malcontents to appeal to the Parlement of Paris against Edwardâs authority.12
- Maritime Conflict: In 1293, violent skirmishes between English and Norman sailors inflamed relations, leading Philip IV to demand compensation.12
- The Deception: Philip IV tricked Edwardâs brother, Edmund, into a temporary, formal surrender of Gascony under the guise of a diplomatic negotiation. Once the duchy was in his possession, Philip refused to restore it.2
- Confiscation: Following these events, Philip IV formally announced the confiscation of Gascony in 1294, prompting Edward to renounce his homage and prepare for war.12
The conflict was eventually paused by a truce in 1297, mediated by Pope Boniface VIII.2