In 1214 John began his final campaign to reclaim Normandy from Philip. John was optimistic, as he had successfully built up alliances with the Emperor Otto, Renaud of Boulogne and Count Ferdinand of Flanders; he was enjoying papal favour; and he had successfully built up substantial funds to pay for the deployment of his experienced army. Nonetheless, when John left for Poitou in February 1214, many barons refused to provide military service; mercenary knights had to fill the gaps. John's plan was to split Philip's forces by pushing north-east from Poitou towards Paris, whilst Otto, Renaud and Ferdinand, supported by William Longespée, marched south-west from Flanders. COUNT 3
QSN1 When did John begin his final campaign to reclaim Normandy? ANS1 1214 QSN2 Who did John build alliances with? ANS2 Emperor Otto, Renaud of Boulogne and Count Ferdinand of Flanders QSN3 When did John leave for Poitou? ANS3 February 1214