Henry II's Reign and Achievements

Henry II, a pivotal 12th-century monarch, inherited the English throne and Normandy, marrying Eleanor of Aquitaine to expand his empire. He restored order in England post-civil war, implementing legal reforms that laid the foundation for English common law. Despite his achievements, Henry's reign was marred by family conflicts, including a rebellion led by his son Richard. His legal reforms, however, ensured his legacy as a transformative ruler.

What territories did Henry II inherit that helped him rise to power?

• Aquitaine and the Spanish throne

• Brittany and the Scottish throne

• Flanders and the Irish throne

• Normandy and the English throne

Who did Henry II marry to strengthen his empire?

• Matilda of Scotland

• Margaret of Anjou

• Isabella of Angoulême

• Eleanor of Aquitaine

What was one of Henry II's major achievements in consolidating power in England?

• Conquering Scotland

• Introducing his own courts and magistrates

• Building the Tower of London

• Establishing the Magna Carta

What was a significant conflict Henry II faced with the church?

• The Crusades

• The struggle with Archbishop Thomas Becket

• The Great Schism

• The excommunication of his son

What was a major cause of tension within Henry II's family?

• His favoritism towards his daughters

• His distant relationship with his sons

• His refusal to grant land to his wife

• His alliance with the Pope

What action did Henry II take against his wife Eleanor?

• He locked her in a tower

• He divorced her

• He sent her to a convent

• He crowned her queen

Which of Henry II's sons led a rebellion against him?

• Richard

• John

• Geoffrey

• William

What was a key factor in Henry II's downfall?

• His defeat in battle

• His poor relationship with his sons

• His loss of Normandy

• His excommunication by the Pope

What legal reform is Henry II credited with establishing?

• The Domesday Book

• The English Bill of Rights

• English common law

• The Magna Carta

What was the Assize of Clarendon?

• A religious council

• A set of procedures for justice administration

• A treaty with France

• A military campaign