The Three Edwards: War and State in England 1272-1377 is an excellent introduction to this eventful and fascinating period of history. It analyses the three Kings of very different qualities and reputations: the confident and masterful Edward I who conquered Wales; Edward II who was defeated by the Scots in battle and was humiliated and deposed; and Edward III whose reign saw great triumphs against the French, but also the terrible ravages of plague.
The book focuses on the central importance of war and how it was financed and organised, as war was an essential determinant of political and constitutional development during this period. The need to organise and finance campaigns on a huge scale posed major problems for the government and placed great burdens on the people. Success in war brought political peace but failure was divisive. The importance of war in this period stretched far beyond the traditional bounds of military history. This book therefore tells the story of how England responded to the pressures of war, and of the part played in the process by the three Kings.
The second edition of this highly acclaimed book updates the picture throughout, in the light of recent research.