Stephen, King of England

Stephen, often referred to as Stephen of Blois, was King of England from 22 December 1135 until his death in 1154. He was also Count of Boulogne jure uxoris from 1125 until 1147 and Duke of Normandy from 1135 until 1144. His rule was significantly challenged by the Anarchy, a civil war against his cousin, the Empress Matilda. Stephen’s early life was marked by his upbringing in the County of Blois and his rise in prominence at the court of his uncle, Henry I of England. His marriage to Matilda of Boulogne brought him additional wealth and influence. The succession crisis that followed Henry I’s death led Stephen to claim the English throne, justifying his actions by emphasizing the need for order and stability.

Stephen’s reign witnessed numerous military conflicts, including battles with the Scots, Welsh, and Geoffrey Plantagenet. Despite initial successes, his authority waned following his capture at the Battle of Lincoln in 1141. His eventual release came after his wife and allies captured Robert of Gloucester. The protracted civil war saw neither side gain a decisive advantage, leading to negotiations with the Empress Matilda’s son, Henry II, who would succeed Stephen, marking the beginning of Angevin rule in England. Modern historians debate Stephen’s personal contributions to the civil war and the role of external factors and state weaknesses.