
Richard II of England
Richard II was King of England from 1377 to 1399, ascending the throne as a child after the death of his grandfather, Edward III. His reign faced challenges, including the Peasants' Revolt in 1381 and tensions with powerful nobles. Known for his artistic interests and attempts to assert royal power, Richard's rule became increasingly autocratic. In 1399, he was overthrown by his cousin Henry Bolingbroke, later King Henry IV. Richard II's tragic story has been immortalized in literature, notably by Shakespeare, highlighting themes of power, fortune, and the complexity of kingship.