Richard I
Richard I, known as Richard the Lionheart (1157-99). King of England from 1189. On his accession to the throne he joined the Third Crusade and while he was absent his brother John attempted to usurp him. Richard tried to return to England in disguise but was captured in Austria and held for ransom by Emperor Henry VI. On the payment of this ransom he returned to England and re-established control. He died while fighting in France. His courage and leadership were celebrated in a number of heroic romances after his death.
