The most important change in English central government in the period 1066 to 1216 was the development of the Exchequer. How far do you agree?

The period 1066 to 1216 witnessed significant transformations in English central government, with the development of various institutions and practices that strengthened royal authority and contributed to the emergence of a more centralised state. While the Exchequer played a crucial role in this process, arguing that it was the single most important change is debatable. This essay will examine the development of the Exchequer and its contribution to royal authority, while also considering other crucial changes that may have been equally or even more important.

The Exchequer and its impact

The Exchequer, a system of royal finances, emerged as a clearly defined institution during the reign of Henry I (1100-1135). It served as a central point for receiving and disbursing royal revenues, with sheriffs, who were responsible for collecting taxes in their counties, required to render accounts at the Exchequer. This system brought sheriffs under royal control, enhancing the king's ability to directly manage financial affairs. The Exchequer's transparent methods, with accounts being audited and scrutinized, contributed to a perception of fairness and efficiency, further bolstering royal authority. This was especially important in a period where financial resources were crucial for maintaining royal power.

Furthermore, the Exchequer played a key role in expanding royal finances. By establishing a centralized system for managing revenues, kings could more effectively collect and utilize their resources, meeting the increasing costs of administration, warfare, and court maintenance. The Exchequer's financial efficiency contributed to the growing financial power of the monarchy, a crucial factor in consolidating its authority.

Challenging the centrality of the Exchequer

While the Exchequer's importance in strengthening royal authority is undeniable, it is important to consider other significant developments that may have been equally or even more influential. The development of the role of the chief justiciar, for instance, was crucial for the effective functioning of absentee kingship, a recurring theme in this period. The chief justiciar acted as the king's representative in his absence, overseeing legal matters, administering justice, and maintaining order. This office enabled the monarch to maintain control over the kingdom even when physically absent, a vital element in the successful transition from Norman rule to Angevin dominance.

Another significant development was the evolution of the Chancery, which served as the king's secretariat, responsible for drafting legal documents, royal decrees, and other official communication. While functioning from the very beginning of the period, the Chancery underwent significant development under the Angevins, particularly under Hubert Walter, who oversaw a dramatic increase in chancery documents. This development facilitated the efficient administration of justice and the dissemination of royal pronouncements, contributing to the centralization of power and the expansion of royal influence.

The broader context of centralization

It is important to recognize that the Exchequer, the chief justiciar, and the Chancery were not isolated developments. They were all part of a broader process of centralization and the development of a more bureaucratic government, which began with the Norman Conquest and continued throughout the period. The Normans imported their own ideas of feudal government, with its emphasis on centralized authority and the establishment of a hierarchical system of officials. This process was reinforced by the acquisition of continental possessions by English monarchs, which led to absentee kingship and necessitated the development of efficient mechanisms for administering the kingdom from afar.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the development of the Exchequer was a significant change in English central government from 1066 to 1216, it was not the single most important one. The rise of the chief justiciar, the evolution of the Chancery, and the broader process of centralization and bureaucratic development were all equally crucial in strengthening royal authority and shaping the contours of English government. The Exchequer, as part of this larger process, played a vital role in financial management, but it was not the sole driver of change during this transformative period.