Stephen, Archbishop of Canterbury, was born about the middle of the twelfth century, and is claimed as a son by the counties of Lincoln and Devon. The exact date and the exact spot of his birth are alike unknown. He studied at Paris, and in course of time became chancellor of the University of that city. Soon after the beginning of the thirteenth century he visited Rome. The reigning Pope (Innocent III.) not only made him cardinal of St Chrysogonus, but appointed him to the see of Canterbury, then vacant. John of England refused to sanction the choice of the pontiff, and his refusal led to that memorable contest, which resulted in his complete humiliation. (See ENGLAND, and JOHN OF ENGLAND.) It was by Langton's advice that the English barons insisted upon the charter of Runnymede; but his unyielding assertion of their rights against the king, after John had been formally reconciled to the Papal see, brought him into disgrace with Innocent, who suspended him. Langton, however, retained office, and continued to administer the affairs of the church with his wonted skill and vigour till his death in 1228. In letters, Langton did too little to make himself a lasting name, but some small theological essays of his which have been published justify his character as an elegant and accomplished scholar.