Langton, Stephen (c.1156–1228). Biblical scholar and ecclesiastical politician who helped in the making of Magna Carta. Educated at Paris, Langton stayed on to teach theology there. As a theologian he is most famous for his practical work in revising the order of the books of the Bible and arranging them into chapters. Pope Innocent III made him a cardinal in 1206 and next year consecrated him as archbishop of Canterbury against the wishes of King John. John's refusal to allow Langton into England led to a quarrel between king and pope that lasted until John submitted in 1213. Once in England, Langton's concern for lawful government made him an important mediator between the king and his baronial enemies, and he played a key role in the negotiations which led up to Magna Carta. Once this had been sealed, he remained fully committed to its principles. But this brought him into conflict with Innocent III since the pope thoroughly approved of a king who had submitted to him and, at John's request, declared Magna Carta null and void. Langton was suspended from office in September 1215 and went to Rome. He returned to England in 1218 but it was not until he had paid another visit to Rome in 1220–1 to secure the recall of an all too influential papal legate that he was free to play an active role in English affairs. During the minority of Henry III his moderating presence and co-operation with Hubert de Burgh did much to keep the peace, until he withdrew from politics in the year before his death.

John Gillingham