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The crisis of Royal Authority, 1166–1174

The Reign of Henry II, 1154–1189: The crisis of Royal Authority, 1166–1174

4

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10

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10

Questions

88 min

Study time

AqaA LevelHistory2A Royal Authority and the Angevin Kings, 1154–1216

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4 objective pages available

The crisis of Royal Authority, 1166–11744 objectives
  • The conflict between Church and State: Thomas Becket and the crisis of 1170; the clash between Henry II and the Papacy.
  • Henry II and Ireland: the invasions of 1169 and 1171; relations with the Irish nobility.
  • The origins of the Great Rebellion: dynastic instability and Henry II’s relations with the three rebellious sons, Eleanor of Aquitaine and their supporters; the role of Louis VII of France.
  • The course of the Great Rebellion: political instability; the barons; William I of Scotland; the re-establishment of Henry II’s rule.

Key terms

Royal AuthorityEcclesiastical PrivilegeLordship of IrelandDermot MacMurroughDynastic InstabilityGreat RebellionTreaty of Falaise

Exam tips

  • Use specific evidence: Always support your arguments with specific examples from the period, such as key events or documents.
  • Use specific examples in your answers: When discussing the invasions, include specific events or outcomes to support your arguments.

Common mistakes

  • Overgeneralizing the conflict: Focus on specific events, such as the Constitutions of Clarendon and Becket's murder, to provide a clearer understanding of the conflict's significance.
  • Confusing the invasions of 1169 and 1171: Clarify that the 1169 invasion was initiated by MacMurrough's request, while the 1171 invasion was a direct action by Henry II to assert control.

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