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The vast domain ruled by Henry II, including England and French territories, became known as the Angevin Empire.
Answer: True
Explanation: The extensive territories controlled by Henry II, encompassing England and significant French duchies and counties, were later termed the 'Angevin Empire' by historians to describe this complex cross-channel dominion.
Henry II was born in England to parents who were both English royalty.
Answer: False
Explanation: Henry II was born in Le Mans, France, not England. His parents were Geoffrey Plantagenet, Count of Anjou, and Empress Matilda, daughter of King Henry I of England.
Geoffrey Plantagenet, Henry II's father, held the title of Count of Anjou.
Answer: True
Explanation: Geoffrey Plantagenet, Henry II's father, was indeed the Count of Anjou, a title that formed a crucial part of the inheritance that passed to Henry.
Empress Matilda, Henry II's mother, was the daughter of King Henry I of England.
Answer: True
Explanation: Empress Matilda, Henry II's mother, was the legitimate heir to the English throne as the daughter of King Henry I, a fact central to the dynastic struggles of the era.
Geoffrey Plantagenet gained control of Normandy primarily through military conquest unrelated to English politics.
Answer: False
Explanation: Geoffrey Plantagenet's acquisition of Normandy was closely tied to the political instability in England following Henry I's death, leveraging the ensuing power vacuum.
Nine-year-old Henry II visited Bristol in 1142 as a political demonstration of his father's support for King Stephen.
Answer: False
Explanation: Henry II's visit to Bristol at age nine was intended as part of his education and as a political statement supporting his mother Matilda's claim, not as a demonstration of support for King Stephen.
Henry II's stay in Bristol at age nine was intended partly as an educational experience.
Answer: True
Explanation: The young Henry II's residence in Bristol was structured to provide him with an educational experience within a significant center of Angevin influence.
Henry II inherited Normandy directly from his mother, Empress Matilda.
Answer: False
Explanation: Henry II inherited Normandy from his father, Geoffrey Plantagenet, who had been appointed Duke by his own father, Fulk V, and later secured it during the Anarchy.
The marriage to Eleanor of Aquitaine in 1152 was crucial for Henry II gaining control of Aquitaine.
Answer: True
Explanation: Henry II's marriage to Eleanor of Aquitaine in 1152 was the pivotal event that brought the vast and wealthy Duchy of Aquitaine under his control, significantly expanding his territorial holdings.
Henry II became Duke of Normandy in 1151, the year after inheriting Anjou.
Answer: False
Explanation: Henry II was appointed Duke of Normandy in 1150 by his father, Geoffrey Plantagenet. He inherited Anjou and Maine in 1151.
Eleanor of Aquitaine was younger than Henry II when they married.
Answer: False
Explanation: Eleanor of Aquitaine was approximately eleven years older than Henry II when they married in 1152.
Henry II's marriage to Eleanor of Aquitaine created a vast cross-channel empire.
Answer: True
Explanation: The union of Henry II's inheritance with Eleanor's vast duchy of Aquitaine resulted in the formation of a formidable cross-channel empire, stretching from Scotland to the Pyrenees.
Henry II was born in 1133 in Le Mans, France. Who were his parents?
Answer: Geoffrey Plantagenet and Empress Matilda
Explanation: Henry II was the son of Geoffrey Plantagenet, Count of Anjou, and Empress Matilda, the daughter of King Henry I of England.
How did Henry II acquire control over the Duchy of Aquitaine?
Answer: Through his marriage to Eleanor of Aquitaine.
Explanation: Henry II gained control of the extensive Duchy of Aquitaine primarily through his marriage to its heiress, Eleanor of Aquitaine, in 1152.
What was a major consequence of Henry II's marriage to Eleanor of Aquitaine?
Answer: It created a vast cross-channel empire for Henry.
Explanation: The marriage united Henry's existing territories with Eleanor's vast Duchy of Aquitaine, forming a sprawling cross-channel empire that significantly altered the political map of Western Europe.
By the age of 14, Henry II was actively supporting his mother Matilda's claim to the English throne against King Stephen.
Answer: True
Explanation: At the age of fourteen, Henry II became actively involved in the political and military efforts to secure his mother Matilda's claim to the English throne during the tumultuous period known as the Anarchy.
The Anarchy was a period where Henry II's father, Geoffrey Plantagenet, fought to claim the English throne.
Answer: False
Explanation: The Anarchy (1135-1154) was primarily a conflict between Empress Matilda and King Stephen for the English throne, not between Geoffrey Plantagenet and Stephen.
The Anarchy, a civil war from 1135-1154, weakened royal authority in England.
Answer: True
Explanation: The protracted civil war known as the Anarchy significantly undermined the stability and authority of the English crown, creating conditions that Henry II would later work to rectify.
The primary conflict during the Anarchy was between Henry II and his father, Geoffrey Plantagenet.
Answer: False
Explanation: The central conflict of the Anarchy was between Empress Matilda and King Stephen; Henry II's involvement was as Matilda's son and eventual successor, not a direct combatant against his father.
Henry II's first military expedition into England at age fourteen was highly successful and secured his mother's claim.
Answer: False
Explanation: Henry II's initial military foray into England at age fourteen yielded limited success and did not secure his mother's claim; it was more of a political demonstration that concluded with his withdrawal.
Henry II was nicknamed 'Curtmantle' because he was known for his tall stature.
Answer: False
Explanation: The nickname 'Curtmantle' referred to Henry II's preference for wearing a short Angevin cloak, not his physical stature.
Chroniclers described Henry II as having red hair and a stocky build.
Answer: True
Explanation: Contemporary accounts often depicted Henry II with red hair and a robust, stocky physique, contributing to his formidable presence.
Henry II was described as vindictive and overly gentle in his dealings with others.
Answer: False
Explanation: Historical descriptions generally portray Henry II as ruthless and possessing a bullying demeanor, rather than being overly gentle or excessively vindictive.
Henry II possessed immense energy and drive, coupled with a bullying demeanor.
Answer: True
Explanation: Henry II was widely recognized for his prodigious energy and relentless drive, often manifested through a commanding and sometimes bullying personal style.
The Treaty of Wallingford officially ended the Anarchy and named Henry II as the successor to King Stephen.
Answer: True
Explanation: The Treaty of Wallingford, agreed upon in 1153, formally concluded the civil war known as the Anarchy and designated Henry II as King Stephen's heir, ensuring a peaceful succession.
King Stephen died before the Treaty of Wallingford was signed.
Answer: False
Explanation: King Stephen died in 1154, after the Treaty of Wallingford (1153) had been signed, which stipulated Henry II would succeed him.
After becoming king, Henry II focused on dismantling royal administration and weakening central authority.
Answer: False
Explanation: Upon ascending the throne, Henry II prioritized strengthening and restoring royal administration and central authority, which had been severely weakened during the Anarchy.
Henry II took steps to dismantle unauthorized castles built during the civil war.
Answer: True
Explanation: A key measure taken by Henry II early in his reign was the systematic dismantling of numerous unauthorized fortifications erected during the Anarchy, thereby consolidating royal control.
In his early reign, Henry II was characterized by his energetic and assertive approach to consolidating power.
Answer: True
Explanation: Henry II's early reign was marked by a vigorous and assertive strategy focused on consolidating his authority, expanding his territories, and establishing firm royal governance across his domains.
At what age did Henry II first become involved in English politics, supporting his mother's claim during the Anarchy?
Answer: Fourteen years old
Explanation: Henry II first became actively involved in supporting his mother's claim to the English throne during the Anarchy at the age of fourteen.
What historical period is described as a civil war in England between 1135 and 1154, primarily fought between Empress Matilda and King Stephen?
Answer: The Anarchy
Explanation: The period between 1135 and 1154, characterized by civil war between Empress Matilda and King Stephen, is known historically as the Anarchy.
Henry II earned the nickname 'Curtmantle' primarily because:
Answer: He favored wearing a short Angevin cloak.
Explanation: The nickname 'Curtmantle' originated from Henry II's predilection for wearing a distinctive short Angevin cloak.
Which of the following traits was NOT typically associated with Henry II's personality according to the source?
Answer: Vindictiveness
Explanation: While described as ruthless and possessing a bullying demeanor, Henry II was generally considered not vindictive, suggesting a capacity for strategic pragmatism over personal retribution.
What was the primary outcome of the Treaty of Wallingford in 1153?
Answer: It established Henry II as the heir to King Stephen.
Explanation: The Treaty of Wallingford resolved the succession crisis by stipulating that King Stephen would recognize Henry II as his adopted son and designated heir to the English throne.
Which of the following actions did Henry II take upon becoming King to restore royal authority?
Answer: He began dismantling numerous unauthorized castles.
Explanation: Upon assuming the throne, Henry II initiated measures to restore order and royal authority, including the systematic dismantling of unauthorized castles built during the preceding period of civil war.
The conflict between Henry II and Thomas Becket centered on Becket's desire to increase royal power over the Church.
Answer: False
Explanation: The conflict between Henry II and Thomas Becket primarily concerned the extent of royal jurisdiction over ecclesiastical matters, with Becket defending the Church's traditional rights against royal encroachment.
Henry II and Thomas Becket disagreed on whether clergy accused of secular crimes should face royal courts.
Answer: True
Explanation: A central point of contention between Henry II and Thomas Becket was the question of jurisdiction: Henry sought to subject clergy accused of secular crimes to royal courts, while Becket maintained they should be tried by ecclesiastical courts.
The Constitutions of Clarendon were laws designed to give the Church exclusive jurisdiction over all crimes.
Answer: False
Explanation: The Constitutions of Clarendon aimed to define and limit the Church's jurisdiction relative to the Crown, asserting royal authority over ecclesiastical matters, rather than granting exclusive jurisdiction to the Church.
Thomas Becket initially consented to the Constitutions of Clarendon but later withdrew his agreement.
Answer: True
Explanation: Archbishop Thomas Becket initially assented to the Constitutions of Clarendon under pressure from Henry II, but subsequently recanted his agreement, escalating the conflict between church and state.
Thomas Becket was murdered in Canterbury Cathedral by Henry II himself.
Answer: False
Explanation: Thomas Becket was murdered in Canterbury Cathedral by four knights acting on a perceived, albeit indirect, royal command, not by Henry II himself.
Henry II's frustrated words about disloyal knights indirectly led to Thomas Becket's murder.
Answer: True
Explanation: Henry II's outburst expressing frustration over Becket's defiance is widely believed to have incited the knights who subsequently murdered the Archbishop, thus indirectly leading to his death.
Henry II's pilgrimage to Canterbury was a celebration of his victory over the rebels.
Answer: False
Explanation: Henry II's pilgrimage to Canterbury following the Great Revolt was an act of public penance and a demonstration of submission to divine authority, intended to restore his legitimacy rather than celebrate a military victory.
Henry II's pilgrimage to Becket's tomb helped restore his royal authority after the Great Revolt.
Answer: True
Explanation: By undertaking a public pilgrimage and performing acts of penance at Thomas Becket's tomb, Henry II sought to appease ecclesiastical authorities and bolster his own royal authority following the internal turmoil of the Great Revolt.
The core dispute between Henry II and Thomas Becket concerned:
Answer: The authority of royal courts versus church courts over clergy crimes.
Explanation: The fundamental conflict between Henry II and Thomas Becket revolved around the jurisdiction over clergy accused of secular offenses, specifically whether they should be subject to royal courts or ecclesiastical courts.
What was the main purpose of the Constitutions of Clarendon established in 1164?
Answer: To define the relationship and jurisdiction between the Crown and the Church.
Explanation: The Constitutions of Clarendon were a set of royal decrees intended to formally define and regulate the relationship between the English Crown and the Church, particularly concerning legal jurisdiction and administrative practices.
Who was directly responsible for the murder of Thomas Becket in 1170?
Answer: Four household knights acting on a perceived royal command.
Explanation: Thomas Becket was murdered by four knights—Reginald FitzUrse, William de Tracy, Hugh de Morville, and Richard le Breton—who were motivated by Henry II's reported outburst against the Archbishop's defiance.
What was the significance of Henry II's pilgrimage to Canterbury after the Great Revolt?
Answer: It served as a public act of penance that helped restore his authority.
Explanation: Henry II's pilgrimage to Canterbury was a significant act of public penance at Becket's tomb, aimed at appeasing the Church and reinforcing his legitimacy and royal authority following the internal conflicts.
What was the primary purpose of the Compromise of Avranches in 1172?
Answer: To resolve the international crisis following the murder of Thomas Becket.
Explanation: The Compromise of Avranches was an agreement reached between Henry II and papal legates aimed at resolving the profound crisis caused by the murder of Thomas Becket, involving concessions from Henry and a papal absolution.
Henry II's legal reforms weakened the English Common Law system.
Answer: False
Explanation: Henry II's legal reforms, including the expansion of royal courts and the use of juries, are considered foundational to the development and strengthening of the English Common Law system.
The introduction of itinerant justices was part of Henry II's legal reforms.
Answer: True
Explanation: The establishment of itinerant justices, royal judges who traveled circuits throughout the kingdom, was a significant component of Henry II's legal reforms, extending royal justice to local areas.
18th-century historians like David Hume viewed Henry II's reign as detrimental to British unity.
Answer: False
Explanation: Eighteenth-century historians, such as David Hume, often viewed Henry II's reign as pivotal in forging a unified Britain and establishing a strong English monarchy, rather than detrimental to unity.
Victorian historians praised Henry II's personal morality while criticizing his empire-building.
Answer: False
Explanation: Victorian historians tended to criticize aspects of Henry II's personal morality, particularly concerning his family relationships and the Becket affair, while often acknowledging his significant achievements in empire-building.
Twentieth-century historians focused solely on Henry II's personal life, ignoring his administrative achievements.
Answer: False
Explanation: Twentieth-century historiography moved beyond solely focusing on personal life, extensively examining Henry II's administrative genius, governmental reforms, and the broader impact of the Angevin Empire.
The term 'Angevin Empire' was used by Henry II himself to describe his domains.
Answer: False
Explanation: The term 'Angevin Empire' was coined retrospectively by late-Victorian historians to characterize the vast collection of territories ruled by Henry II and his successors.
The 'Treatise of Glanvill' predates Henry II's legal reforms and offers no insight into them.
Answer: False
Explanation: The 'Treatise of Glanvill,' compiled near the end of Henry II's reign, is a significant legal document that chronicles and illuminates the legal reforms and the developing common law system of his era.
Henry II's financial reforms led to a decrease in royal revenues.
Answer: False
Explanation: Henry II's financial reforms, including the standardization of coinage and improved revenue collection, resulted in a substantial increase in royal revenues, bolstering the Crown's financial capacity.
The 'Short Cross' coinage reform centralized control of mints under royal officials.
Answer: True
Explanation: The 'Short Cross' coinage reform implemented during Henry II's reign centralized the administration of mints under royal officials, enhancing royal control over currency and revenue.
Henry II's legal reforms primarily aimed to increase the judicial powers of the nobility.
Answer: False
Explanation: Henry II's legal reforms aimed to strengthen royal judicial authority, often challenging and curtailing the traditional judicial powers of the nobility in favor of centralized royal courts.
Contemporaries universally praised Henry II for his gentle nature and peaceful reign.
Answer: False
Explanation: Contemporary views of Henry II were mixed; while his administrative capabilities and vast dominion were acknowledged, his temper, ruthlessness, and involvement in conflicts were also subjects of criticism.
By the 1180s, 'new men' formed a predominant class of royal officials loyal directly to the king.
Answer: True
Explanation: During the later decades of Henry II's reign, particularly by the 1180s, individuals from outside the traditional aristocracy, often termed 'new men,' increasingly occupied key administrative positions, demonstrating direct loyalty to the Crown.
Henry II borrowed money more extensively than previous English rulers to fund his campaigns and administration.
Answer: True
Explanation: To finance his extensive military campaigns and the administration of his vast empire, Henry II relied more heavily on borrowing and financial mechanisms than his predecessors, reflecting the increasing costs of governance.
Revenue generated from his demesne lands was the primary source of Henry II's income in England.
Answer: True
Explanation: For a significant portion of his reign, the income derived from Henry II's own royal lands (demesne) constituted the principal source of revenue for the English Crown, supplemented by other forms of taxation.
The 'Short Cross' coinage reform in 1180 centralized control of mints under royal officials.
Answer: True
Explanation: The 'Short Cross' coinage reform standardized currency and centralized the operation of mints under royal authority, enhancing fiscal control and revenue generation for the Crown.
Henry II's legal reforms challenged the traditional judicial powers of the nobility.
Answer: True
Explanation: By expanding the reach of royal courts and introducing new legal procedures like the use of juries, Henry II's reforms effectively challenged and diminished the independent judicial authority traditionally held by the nobility.
Contemporaries held mixed views of Henry II; while some acknowledged his vast dominion, he was also criticized for his temper and perceived ruthlessness.
Answer: True
Explanation: Contemporary assessments of Henry II were complex, acknowledging his formidable rule and extensive territories while also noting his volatile temper and often ruthless methods.
Henry II's legal reforms, including the use of itinerant justices and juries, are considered foundational for the development of:
Answer: English Common Law
Explanation: The legal innovations introduced by Henry II, such as the widespread use of itinerant justices and the formalization of jury systems, laid crucial groundwork for the evolution of English Common Law.
Who is credited with coining the term 'Angevin Empire'?
Answer: Late-Victorian historians
Explanation: The term 'Angevin Empire' was not used during Henry II's lifetime but was later coined by late-Victorian historians to describe the extensive territories under the rule of the Angevin dynasty.
What is the primary significance of the 'Treatise of Glanvill'?
Answer: It documents the legal reforms and the development of a coherent legal system during Henry II's rule.
Explanation: The 'Treatise of Glanvill,' compiled near the end of Henry II's reign, serves as a vital historical source documenting the significant legal reforms and the emerging structure of the English common law system.
What was a notable outcome of Henry II's financial reforms, such as the standardization of coinage?
Answer: A substantial rise in royal revenues and contribution to inflation.
Explanation: Henry II's financial reforms, including coinage standardization and centralized mint control, led to increased royal revenues and contributed to broader economic changes, including inflation.
What was the 'General Eyre' established during Henry II's reign?
Answer: A system of royal justices traveling to handle cases in counties.
Explanation: The General Eyre was a crucial administrative innovation under Henry II, involving royal justices who traveled across the country to hear cases, thereby extending the reach of royal law and administration.
How did Henry II utilize juries in his legal reforms?
Answer: He expanded their use for determining facts in petty assizes and deciding guilt in grand assizes.
Explanation: Henry II significantly expanded the role of juries within the legal system, employing them not only to ascertain facts in civil matters (petty assizes) but also in determining guilt in more serious cases (grand assizes).
What role did 'new men' play in Henry II's administration, particularly by the 1180s?
Answer: They formed a predominant class of royal officials, loyal directly to the king.
Explanation: By the 1180s, 'new men,' often from less prominent backgrounds, constituted a significant portion of the royal administration, serving as loyal officials directly accountable to the king.
How did Henry II's approach to personal finances differ from earlier English rulers?
Answer: He borrowed money more extensively to fund his campaigns and administration.
Explanation: Henry II's financial management involved a greater reliance on borrowing and credit compared to his predecessors, enabling him to fund the extensive demands of his empire and military operations.
What was a key aspect of the 'Short Cross' coinage reform of 1180?
Answer: Centralization of mint control under royal officials.
Explanation: The 'Short Cross' coinage reform of 1180 was characterized by the centralization of minting operations under royal officials, enhancing the Crown's control over currency and revenue.
How did Henry II's legal reforms impact the relationship between the Crown and the nobility?
Answer: They challenged the traditional judicial powers of the nobility, reinforcing royal authority.
Explanation: Henry II's legal reforms significantly strengthened royal authority by challenging the nobility's traditional judicial privileges and expanding the jurisdiction of royal courts.
How did contemporaries generally perceive Henry II's character?
Answer: Viewed with mixed feelings, acknowledging his dominion but criticizing his temper and ruthlessness.
Explanation: Contemporary perceptions of Henry II were complex, recognizing his vast power and administrative acumen while also noting his formidable temper, ruthless policies, and bullying demeanor.
Henry II planned to grant England and Normandy to his son Richard.
Answer: False
Explanation: Henry II's succession plan, as discussed at Montmirail in 1169, designated his eldest living son, Young Henry, to inherit England and Normandy, with Richard slated for Aquitaine.
The plan to divide Henry II's empire among his sons was discussed at the Montmirail conference in 1169.
Answer: True
Explanation: The Montmirail conference in 1169 served as a venue where Henry II outlined and discussed his proposed division of the Angevin Empire among his sons, primarily Young Henry, Richard, and Geoffrey.
The Great Revolt of 1173-1174 was primarily caused by Henry II's sons seeking more land from Louis VII.
Answer: False
Explanation: The Great Revolt was primarily driven by internal dynastic grievances of Henry II's sons, who felt they lacked sufficient power and resources despite their titles, rather than solely seeking land from Louis VII.
Young Henry's grievance in the Great Revolt stemmed from his lack of power and funds despite his title.
Answer: True
Explanation: A principal cause of the Great Revolt was the discontent of Young Henry, who felt marginalized and lacked the substantive power and financial resources commensurate with his royal title.
Eleanor of Aquitaine supported Henry II during the Great Revolt against her sons.
Answer: False
Explanation: Eleanor of Aquitaine, whose relationship with Henry II had deteriorated significantly, supported her sons in the Great Revolt against him.
Henry II was unable to suppress the Great Revolt, leading to the loss of significant territories.
Answer: False
Explanation: Henry II decisively suppressed the Great Revolt of 1173-1174, demonstrating his military capability and administrative resilience, and did not lose significant territories as a result.
Henry II's decisive response successfully quelled the Great Revolt of 1173-1174.
Answer: True
Explanation: Henry II's vigorous military and political response effectively suppressed the Great Revolt, reaffirming his authority across his vast domains.
The death of Geoffrey II, Duke of Brittany, solidified Henry II's original succession plans.
Answer: False
Explanation: The death of Geoffrey II, Duke of Brittany, in 1186 disrupted Henry II's established succession plans, prompting a reconsideration of the inheritance distribution, particularly favoring his youngest son, John.
Following Geoffrey's death, Henry II began to favor his youngest son, John, for inheritance.
Answer: True
Explanation: The unexpected death of Geoffrey II led Henry II to re-evaluate his succession strategy, increasingly favoring his youngest son, John, for significant portions of the inheritance.
Richard publicly sided with Henry II against Philip II Augustus in November 1188.
Answer: False
Explanation: In November 1188, Richard publicly renounced his allegiance to Henry II and sided with Philip II Augustus, a significant shift driven by concerns about his inheritance and crusade preparations.
Richard's decision to support Philip II was influenced by concerns about crusade delays and potential disinheritance.
Answer: True
Explanation: Richard's allegiance shift to Philip II was motivated by his perception that Henry II was deliberately delaying the Third Crusade and potentially altering the succession plans to his detriment.
According to Henry II's succession plan discussed at Montmirail in 1169, which son was designated to inherit England and Normandy?
Answer: Young Henry
Explanation: At the Montmirail conference in 1169, Henry II designated his eldest living son, Young Henry, to inherit the core territories of England and Normandy.
Which factor was NOT a primary grievance contributing to the Great Revolt of 1173–1174?
Answer: Eleanor of Aquitaine's desire to reclaim her ancestral lands from Henry II.
Explanation: While Eleanor of Aquitaine supported her sons in the revolt, her primary grievance was not reclaiming ancestral lands but rather her deteriorating relationship with Henry II and her sons' perceived lack of power. The other options represent documented grievances.
How did Henry II ultimately respond to the Great Revolt of 1173–1174?
Answer: He traveled to England, organized a counter-offensive, and suppressed the uprisings.
Explanation: Henry II responded decisively to the Great Revolt by traveling to England, rallying loyal forces, and launching a successful counter-offensive that ultimately quelled the widespread rebellions.
How did the death of Geoffrey II, Duke of Brittany, impact Henry II's succession plans?
Answer: It led Henry II to favor his youngest son, John, potentially altering the inheritance.
Explanation: Geoffrey II's death disrupted Henry II's succession plans, prompting him to reconsider the distribution of territories and increasingly favor his youngest son, John, for significant inheritances.
Why did Richard publicly switch his allegiance to Philip II Augustus against Henry II in 1188?
Answer: Richard believed Henry II was deliberately delaying the crusade preparations and potentially disinheriting him.
Explanation: Richard's defection to Philip II was largely driven by his suspicion that Henry II was intentionally obstructing the preparations for the Third Crusade and might alter the succession plans, potentially disinheriting Richard.
Henry II's reign primarily encompassed England and the Duchy of Normandy, with limited influence elsewhere.
Answer: False
Explanation: The assertion that Henry II's reign primarily encompassed England and Normandy with limited influence elsewhere is inaccurate. His dominion extended significantly beyond these core territories, including direct rule over Ireland, Wales, and substantial portions of France such as Aquitaine. Furthermore, he exerted considerable influence over Scotland and Brittany, shaping their political landscapes.
During his reign, Henry II held direct rule over England, Ireland, and significant portions of France, including Aquitaine.
Answer: True
Explanation: Henry II exercised direct rule over England, Ireland, and extensive territories in France, notably Aquitaine, Normandy, and Anjou, forming the core of what would be termed the Angevin Empire.
Henry II exerted influence over Scotland but never directly controlled any part of it.
Answer: False
Explanation: While Henry II did not establish direct rule over Scotland, his reign saw significant Angevin influence exerted upon the Scottish kingdom, impacting its political trajectory and relationship with England.
Henry II's acquisition of Aquitaine improved his relationship with Louis VII of France.
Answer: False
Explanation: Henry II's control over Aquitaine, gained through his marriage to Eleanor, significantly increased his power within France, leading to heightened tensions and conflict with Louis VII.
Louis VII of France organized alliances against Henry II due to Henry's increased power in France.
Answer: True
Explanation: The substantial territorial gains and increased power of Henry II in France, particularly following his marriage to Eleanor of Aquitaine, prompted Louis VII to form alliances aimed at counterbalancing Angevin influence.
Henry II always maintained direct military control over Brittany throughout his reign.
Answer: False
Explanation: Henry II's control over Brittany evolved; initially indirect, it became more direct through military intervention and political maneuvering, particularly in the 1160s.
Henry II arranged for his son Geoffrey to marry Constance of Brittany, securing Angevin influence.
Answer: True
Explanation: Henry II orchestrated the marriage of his son Geoffrey to Constance, heiress of Brittany, as a strategic move to solidify Angevin influence and control over the duchy.
The war between Henry II and Louis VII in 1167 was solely caused by a dispute over funds for the Crusades.
Answer: False
Explanation: While a dispute over Crusader funds served as a proximate cause, the 1167 war between Henry II and Louis VII stemmed from deeper, long-standing territorial rivalries and power struggles.
Deeper territorial disputes were the underlying cause of the 1167 conflict between Henry II and Louis VII.
Answer: True
Explanation: The conflict between Henry II and Louis VII in 1167, though triggered by a minor issue, was fundamentally rooted in unresolved territorial claims and the ongoing competition for dominance within France.
William of Scotland supported Henry II during the Great Revolt and was rewarded with new lands.
Answer: False
Explanation: William of Scotland allied with Henry II's rebellious sons during the Great Revolt, leading to his capture and subsequent imposition of the Treaty of Falaise, which placed him under English overlordship.
The Treaty of Falaise required William of Scotland to pay homage to Henry II.
Answer: True
Explanation: The Treaty of Falaise, concluded in 1174, compelled William of Scotland to acknowledge Henry II as his feudal superior by paying homage and surrendering control of key Scottish castles.
Tensions between Henry II and Louis VII in the late 1170s focused on control over Normandy.
Answer: False
Explanation: Renewed tensions between Henry II and Louis VII in the late 1170s primarily concerned control over the region of Berry, not Normandy.
Henry II claimed rights to western Berry and cited a marriage settlement involving Richard and Alys.
Answer: True
Explanation: Henry II asserted his claims to western Berry by referencing a marriage settlement that included his son Richard and Alys, Louis VII's daughter, thereby escalating the dispute with the French crown.
Philip II Augustus's relationship with Henry II improved after the death of Geoffrey II, Duke of Brittany.
Answer: False
Explanation: The death of Geoffrey II, Duke of Brittany, significantly worsened the relationship between Henry II and Philip II Augustus, as Philip viewed Geoffrey as a close ally and potential successor.
Philip II Augustus demanded custody of Geoffrey's children and the Duchy of Brittany in 1186.
Answer: True
Explanation: In 1186, Philip II Augustus presented Henry II with demands that included the custody of Geoffrey's children and the governance of the Duchy of Brittany, escalating diplomatic tensions.
Henry II died peacefully in his sleep after a long illness.
Answer: False
Explanation: Henry II died on July 6, 1189, from complications related to a severe bleeding ulcer, not peacefully in his sleep, and his final months were marked by conflict and illness.
A severe bleeding ulcer significantly impacted Henry II's health in his final year.
Answer: True
Explanation: In the last year of his life, Henry II suffered from a severe bleeding ulcer, a condition that gravely affected his health and contributed to his eventual demise.
Henry II was buried at his preferred location, Grandmont Abbey.
Answer: False
Explanation: Although Henry II expressed a desire to be buried at Grandmont Abbey, practical considerations led to his interment at Fontevraud Abbey.
Henry II was interred at Fontevraud Abbey due to practical reasons related to the weather.
Answer: True
Explanation: The decision to bury Henry II at Fontevraud Abbey was influenced by practical concerns, including the difficulty of transporting his body to Grandmont Abbey during hot weather.
The Angevin Empire remained intact and strong throughout the reign of Henry II's son, John.
Answer: False
Explanation: The Angevin Empire experienced significant disintegration during the reign of John, largely due to his military weaknesses and internal divisions, which allowed Philip II of France to reclaim most Angevin territories in France.
Philip II of France conquered most of the Angevin territories in France during John's reign.
Answer: True
Explanation: Philip II Augustus skillfully exploited the vulnerabilities of John's rule, leading to the conquest of most Angevin territories in France, thereby significantly diminishing the empire.
Henry II's interventions had little long-term impact on Brittany, Wales, and Scotland.
Answer: False
Explanation: Henry II's interventions in Brittany, Wales, and Scotland had profound and lasting impacts, significantly shaping their political structures and their relationship with the Angevin realm.
Philip II Augustus was a weak French monarch who posed no threat to Henry II's empire.
Answer: False
Explanation: Philip II Augustus proved to be a formidable and astute monarch who actively challenged Angevin dominance and posed a significant threat to Henry II's empire throughout his reign.
Henry II's final military campaign in 1189 was against the English barons resisting his rule.
Answer: False
Explanation: Henry II's final military campaign in 1189 was primarily directed against the forces of Philip II Augustus and his rebellious son Richard, not against English barons resisting his rule.
Henry II's intervention in Ireland in 1171 led to the complete conquest and annexation of Ireland by England.
Answer: False
Explanation: Henry II's intervention in Ireland in 1171 marked the beginning of English overlordship, but it did not result in the complete conquest or annexation of the island during his reign.
Henry II's intervention in Ireland in 1171 marked the beginning of English overlordship in the country.
Answer: True
Explanation: The intervention of Henry II in Ireland in 1171 initiated a period of English overlordship, establishing a precedent for future English claims and control over parts of the island.
Philip II Augustus, King of France, was a weak ruler who posed little threat to Henry II's empire.
Answer: False
Explanation: Philip II Augustus proved to be a highly capable and ambitious monarch who actively sought to undermine Angevin power and posed a significant threat to Henry II's empire.
Henry II's final military campaign in 1189 was a response to the rebellion instigated by his son Richard, supported by Philip II of France.
Answer: True
Explanation: Henry II's final military engagement in 1189 was precipitated by the rebellion of his son Richard, who had allied himself with Philip II of France, forcing Henry into a confrontation.
Which of the following territories was NOT explicitly mentioned as being under Henry II's direct rule for a significant part of his reign?
Answer: Scotland
Explanation: While Henry II exerted considerable influence over Scotland, the sources indicate direct rule was primarily exercised over England, Normandy, and Aquitaine, among other territories.
Why did Henry II's acquisition of Aquitaine cause tension with Louis VII of France?
Answer: It significantly increased Henry's power and territorial holdings within France.
Explanation: Henry II's control over Aquitaine, combined with his existing French territories, dramatically enhanced his power base within the Kingdom of France, creating a direct challenge to the French crown's authority and provoking Louis VII's opposition.
How did Henry II's approach to governing Brittany evolve over time?
Answer: He transitioned from indirect influence to exerting more direct control.
Explanation: Initially exercising indirect influence over Brittany, Henry II later asserted more direct control through military intervention, forcing the abdication of Duke Conan IV and arranging strategic marriages to secure Angevin dominance.
What was the consequence for William of Scotland after being captured during the Great Revolt?
Answer: He was forced to pay homage to Henry II under the Treaty of Falaise.
Explanation: Upon his capture during the Great Revolt, William of Scotland was compelled to accept the terms of the Treaty of Falaise, which included paying homage to Henry II and submitting to English overlordship.
In the late 1170s, renewed tensions between Henry II and Louis VII primarily concerned control over which region?
Answer: Berry
Explanation: The renewed tensions between Henry II and Louis VII in the late 1170s centered on disputes over control of the region of Berry.
What event significantly contributed to the deterioration of relations between Henry II and Philip II Augustus?
Answer: The death of Geoffrey II, Duke of Brittany, whom Philip considered a friend.
Explanation: The death of Geoffrey II, Duke of Brittany, a figure with whom Philip II Augustus had a close relationship, marked a significant turning point that exacerbated tensions between the French and Angevin monarchs.
Which of the following was NOT among Philip II's demands of Henry II in 1186?
Answer: The return of Normandy to the French crown.
Explanation: While Philip II made demands concerning Brittany, Toulouse, and Richard's marriage arrangements, the explicit demand for the return of Normandy to the French crown was not among those presented in 1186.
What medical condition significantly impacted Henry II's health in the final year of his life?
Answer: A severe bleeding ulcer
Explanation: In the final year of his life, Henry II suffered from a severe bleeding ulcer, a condition that significantly debilitated him and ultimately contributed to his death.
Despite wishing to be buried elsewhere, where was Henry II ultimately interred?
Answer: Fontevraud Abbey
Explanation: Although Henry II had expressed a preference for burial at Grandmont Abbey, he was ultimately interred at Fontevraud Abbey due to practical considerations.
Which of the following was a key reason for the disintegration of the Angevin Empire after Henry II's death?
Answer: John's military weaknesses and internal divisions within the empire.
Explanation: The Angevin Empire began to fracture significantly under John's rule, largely attributed to his military ineptitude, internal conflicts among his vassals, and the strategic prowess of Philip II Augustus.
What was the significance of Henry II's intervention in Ireland in 1171?
Answer: It marked the beginning of English overlordship in Ireland.
Explanation: Henry II's expedition to Ireland in 1171 established English overlordship over the island, initiating a long and complex history of Anglo-Irish relations and English involvement in Irish affairs.
How did Philip II Augustus contribute to the decline of Angevin power in France?
Answer: By skillfully exploiting internal divisions within Henry II's family and empire.
Explanation: Philip II Augustus proved adept at leveraging the internal conflicts and dynastic disputes within the Angevin family, using these divisions to systematically weaken Henry II's empire and reclaim French territories.