Simon Walker (historian)

Simon Walker (born c. 1940, died 2024) was a British historian specializing in late medieval England, particularly the reigns of Richard II and Henry IV. He was a prominent scholar of the English nobility and gentry, their political roles, and their relationships with the crown.

Walker was educated at Merton College, Oxford, where he received his doctorate. He then held academic positions at various institutions, including the University of Reading.

His major publications include:

• The Lancastrian Affinity, 1361-1399 (1990) - A study of John of Gaunt and his influence.
• Henry IV (Profiles in Power) (1990) - A concise biography of the Lancastrian king.
• The History of Parliament: The House of Commons, 1386-1421 (editor, with J.S. Roskell and Linda Clark) (1993) - A key resource for understanding parliamentary history.

Walker's work is characterized by its meticulous archival research and its insightful analysis of social and political structures. He made significant contributions to the understanding of patronage, clientage, and the dynamics of power in late medieval England. He was known for his ability to bring to life the personalities and motivations of the historical figures he studied. He was a respected figure in the academic community and his scholarship continues to be influential.