The Plantagenet Family Feuds
History: KS3, topic 1.8.3
The Plantagenet Family Feuds
The Plantagenet family faced many problems. King Henry II had big troubles with his family, especially his sons. These problems led to many fights for power, including the Revolt of 1173-1174 AD.
Revolt of 1173-1174 AD
- King Henry II’s sons started a rebellion against their father.
- This rebellion is called the Revolt of 1173-1174 AD.
- Henry II’s oldest son, Henry the Young King, led the revolt.
- The sons wanted to take power away from their father.
Eleanor of Aquitaine
- The mother of Henry II’s sons, Eleanor of Aquitaine, supported the rebellion.
- Eleanor was very powerful.
- Eleanor used the money and soldiers from her land, Aquitaine, to help her sons fight Henry II.
- Aquitaine was a rich part of France.
Richard the Lionheart
- Henry II’s son, Richard the Lionheart, also fought against Henry II.
- These fights wore Henry II down, and he died in 1189 AD.
- After Henry II died, Richard the Lionheart became king.
- Richard spent most of his time as king fighting in the Third Crusade.
- Richard left his brother John in charge of England while Richard was away.
John's seizing power
- During Richard the Lionheart’s return from the Crusades, Richard was captured and held for ransom.
- While Richard was captured, John tried to take over the throne.
- John’s actions made many people dislike and distrust him.
John's rule
- When Richard the Lionheart died, John became king.
- John was not a popular king. King John’s rule led to more problems in the family.
- John also had to agree to the Magna Carta in 1215 AD, which limited the power of the king.
Test yourself on The Plantagenet Family Feuds
When did the famous revolt against Henry II took place?
What was the name of the Richard the Lionheart's mother?