Battle of Lewes

The Battle of Lewes, fought on May 14, 1264, during the Second Barons' War in England, was a pivotal conflict between King Henry III and a rebellious baronial coalition led by Simon de Montfort. The barons aimed to curtail the king's power and establish greater political representation. At Lewes, de Montfort's forces defeated the royal army, capturing King Henry and his son, Edward. This victory marked a significant moment in the struggle for English governance, leading to the establishment of the first English Parliament later that year. It highlighted the tensions between monarchy and emerging democratic ideals.