People who held their land directly from the monarch.
Tenants-in-chief
Fact of the Day
Butchers who sold off meat in medieval London ran the risk of being placed in the pillory and having their meat burnt beneath them, so that the rancid smoke would rise into their face.
Quote of the Day
"Oh dear. I think I'm becoming a god.
"
~ Vespasian's last words
On This Day
1282 The last native Prince of Wales, Llewelyn ap Gruffydd, died
1688 King James II tried to flee to France during the Glorious Revolution. He was captured but allowed to escape again later that month.
1936 Edward VIII abdicated in order to marry American divorcee and socialite Wallis Simpson.
1941 Germany and Italy declared war on the USA.
1972 Apollo 17 became the last mission to land on the moon.