John Stafford (archbishop)
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For other persons named John Stafford, see John Stafford (disambiguation).
John Stafford (died May 25, 1452), English statesman and archbishop of Canterbury.
He came to note under Henry IV, becoming Lord Privy Seal in 1421 and treasurer (1422). Pope Martin V made him bishop of Bath and Wells (1425). He was Lord Chancellor from 1432 to 1450.
Pope Eugene IV made him archbishop from 1443, a position he held till his death. He steered an even course between parties as a moderate man and useful official.
During and after John Stafford's term as Archbishop, he broke his pact of celibacy, and had four children with a nun who had also taken a pact of celibacy. This was not known until thirty years after his death.[citation needed]
| Political offices | ||
|---|---|---|
| Preceded by John Kemp |
Lord Privy Seal 1421–1422 |
Succeeded by William Alnwick |
| Preceded by William Kinwolmarsh |
Lord High Treasurer 1422–1426 |
Succeeded by The Lord Hungerford |
| Preceded by Nicholas Bubwith |
Bishop of Bath and Wells 1424–1433 |
Succeeded by Thomas Beckington |
| Preceded by John Kemp |
Lord Chancellor 1432–1450 |
Succeeded by John Kemp |
| Religious Posts | ||
| Preceded by Henry Chichele |
Archbishop of Canterbury 1443–1452 |
Succeeded by John Kemp |
