Barons' Letter

The Barons' Letter of 1301 was a formal petition written by English barons to the Pope, asserting that England’s king, Edward I, had the right to govern the country without interference from the Pope or foreign powers. It responded to papal attempts to influence English affairs, especially concerning the appointment of bishops or church decisions. The letter emphasized loyalty to the king and national independence, underscoring that England's sovereignty should be decided by its own leaders rather than external authority. It is a significant early demonstration of asserting national sovereignty in medieval England.