King Henry I of England

Henry I, also known as Henry Beauclerc, was King of England from 1100 until his death in 1135. He was the fourth son of William the Conqueror and was educated in Latin and the liberal arts. After his father's death in 1087, his brothers inherited Normandy and England, leaving Henry without land. He purchased the County of Cotentin but was deposed by his brothers in 1091, later allying with William Rufus against Robert.

Upon William Rufus's death, Henry seized the English throne, promising to amend unpopular policies. He married Matilda of Scotland, and they had two surviving children, Empress Matilda and William Adelin. Henry's reign saw conflicts with Robert Curthose, whom he defeated at the Battle of Tinchebray in 1106, imprisoning him for life. He faced further challenges from Louis VI of France and others but secured a favorable peace after the Battle of Brémule in 1120.

Henry I died on 1 December 1135 after a week of illness and was buried at Reading Abbey. He was succeeded by his nephew Stephen of Blois, leading to a civil war known as the Anarchy.