-
In 1204 King John lost the Battle of Rouen against the French King Philippe-Auguste. The defeat signalled the loss of continental Normandy, united with the English Crown since the invasion of England by William the Conqueror in 1066. The Channel Islands, part of the Duchy of Normandy for more than a hundred years at that point, might have been expected to align themselves with the French King in 1204 but they were persuaded by a combination of carrot and stick to side with King John instead.
-
The Hundred Year War begins between England and France. France invades the islands a number of times.
-
Jersey is captured by the Parliamentarian army.
-
The Battle of Jersey took place when French troops attempted to take over the islnad. The French invaders were defeated for the last time. A series of towers were erected around Jersey's coast to ward off further attacks.
-
The constitutional position which Jersey enjoys today is founded on these links with the English Crown confirmed in Royal Charters by subsequent monarchs. Over a period of time, the Royal Court began to consult with the people through the Constables (or Connétables) of the parishes and with the church through the rectors. This consultation with the 3 estates of court, people and church was eventually formalised into what we now know as the States of Jersey. Significant constitutional changes in
-
Vikings settled on the mainland and the islands, giving Jersey it's name.
-
The channel islands were the only of britain to be occupied by German forces when the british government enforced chose not to defend them.
