King John renounces the Magna Carta, leading to tensions and the outbreak of the First Barons' War.
Rebellion by English barons against King John's rule, seeking to enforce the Magna Carta and limit royal authority.
A key event during the First Barons' War where rebel barons and their supporters defend Rochester Castle against King John's forces.
King John dies suddenly, leading to the ascension of his son Henry III and changing the course of the conflict.
King John signs the Magna Carta, limiting his powers and angering the nobles and barons who demand enforcement.
William Longespee, a loyal supporter of King John, seizes Rochester Castle to prevent it falling into rebel hands.
William Marshal, a respected knight and warrior, joins the rebel barons opposing King John's rule and supports the enforcement of the Magna Carta.
King John orders a siege of Rochester Castle to retake it from the rebels; the castle is defended by a small group of knights and soldiers.
William Marshal arrives with reinforcements to relieve the siege and bolster the castle's defenses against King John's forces.
Attempts at negotiation between King John and the castle defenders break down, leading to brutal fighting and escalated violence during the siege.
King John's forces launch a desperate and bloody final assault on the castle; despite heroic defense, the castle falls to the king's men.
Following the siege, key knights and warriors, including some defenders, are killed; William Marshal is honored for his bravery and the Magna Carta's enforcement continues to influence English law.
