Henry III's reign lasted over half a century. During that period
England, as we have seen, was not standing still. It was an age of
reform. In religion the "Begging Friars" were exhorting men to better
lives. In education Roger Bacon and other devoted scholars were
laboring to broaden knowledge and deepen thought.
In political affairs the people now first obtained a place in
Parliament. Their victory was not permanent then, but it was the
precursor of the establishment of a permanent House of Commons which
was to come in the next reign.