Langton, Stephen (1165?-1228), was one of England’s greatest archbishops of Canterbury. He was also a famous theologian, Biblical scholar, and statesman. In the late 1100’s, Langton was acknowledged as the greatest commentator on the Bible.
Langton studied at the University of Paris. He was a friend of a fellow student who became Pope Innocent III in 1198. In 1206, Innocent made Langton a cardinal. King John of England wanted to nominate his own candidate as archbishop of Canterbury. Innocent objected and instead appointed Langton in 1207. The king refused to accept him, and Langton had to remain in exile in France. John at last accepted Langton in 1213. As archbishop, Langton defended the independence of the church and promoted peace between John and his barons. Langton played a key role in bringing about Magna Carta (see Magna Carta ). He died on July 9, 1228.
