Conditons of England in 1154, H2's rise to power Flashcards
(17 cards)
When did Henry first attempt to invade England, and why did he fail?
In 1147, at age 14, Henry attempted to invade England but failed due to lack of experience and support. He was forced to flee after achieving little.
Henry’s inexperience played a crucial role in this initial failure.
What happened during Henry’s second attempt to take the throne in 1149?
He was knighted by King David I of Scotland, his great uncle, but ran out of money to pay his mercenaries and failed again to take the crown.
Financial resources were a critical factor in his unsuccessful attempts.
How did Henry’s political position improve by 1153?
He became Count of Anjou in 1151 and Duke of Normandy in 1153, making him significantly more powerful and giving him greater resources and legitimacy.
What was the Treaty of Wallingford and why was it important?
Signed in summer 1153, it forced Stephen to recognise Henry as his heir. Archbishop Theobald of Bec oversaw the treaty and arranged for Stephen to adopt Henry, solidifying his claim.
When did Henry become King of England?
Henry crossed from the continent and was crowned on 19 December 1154 after Stephen died in October 1154.
What popular early decision did Henry make regarding the military?
He dismissed the Flemish mercenaries that had been employed during the Anarchy, which gained public and baronial support.
Which deaths of prominent figures helped consolidate Henry’s power?
Powerful nobles who had supported Stephen, such as:
* Gilbert de Clare (d. 1148 & 1152)
* Ranulf of Chester (d. 1153)
had died before Henry’s accession, reducing opposition.
How did changes in Scotland benefit Henry?
King David I of Scotland died in 1153. His successor, Malcolm IV, was only 12, making it easier for Henry to break promises without serious retaliation.
How did the death of Eustace benefit Henry?
Eustace, Stephen’s heir, died in 1153, removing the main rival claimant and strengthening Henry’s uncontested path to the throne.
What role did Archbishop Theobald of Bec play in supporting Henry?
He supported the Treaty of Wallingford and effectively governed the kingdom until Henry’s arrival, indicating Church support, crucial for restoring royal authority.
What issues did Henry face with the exchequer and pipe rolls?
The exchequer had been undermined during the Anarchy. Pipe rolls (tax records) were outdated or incomplete, making centralized government and financial control difficult.
What was the eyre system and why had its breakdown caused problems?
The eyre system involved royal justices travelling to enforce law. Under Stephen, it collapsed, especially in Northern and Western England, weakening royal legal authority.
What problems had developed around sheriffs under Stephen?
Local barons had appointed sheriffs, sometimes making these positions hereditary. These sheriffs often ignored royal orders, undermining central control.
What lingering threat did Stephen’s family pose?
Several members remained powerful:
* Henry of Blois, Bishop of Winchester
* William of Boulogne, Stephen’s son
* Mary, Stephen’s daughter
How had the English barons weakened the monarchy during the Anarchy?
Barons seized royal demesne lands, enriching themselves and impoverishing the crown. They built adulterine castles without permission and refused to give them up.
What was the situation in Wales and how did it challenge Henry?
Owain Gwynedd was strong in north Wales, and the young Earl of Chester lacked strength as a marcher lord, weakening the border defense.
How had Church appointments undermined royal power under Stephen?
Many bishops had been appointed without royal consent, weakening the crown’s authority over a powerful landowning institution.
