William Fitzempress
22 July 1136 - 30 January 1164
House: Plantagenet, Angevin
Titles: Viscount of Dieppe
William FitzEmpress was born on 22 July 1136 in Argentan, Normandy, as the youngest son of Empress Matilda and Geoffrey Plantagenet, Count of Anjou. He grew up during The Anarchy, a civil war over the English crown involving his mother and her cousin Stephen of Blois. His family was deeply involved in the conflict, with his father fighting in Normandy and his mother campaigning in England.
In 1156, William participated in the siege of Chinon alongside his brother Henry, due to their brother Geoffrey's rebellion. He also led the siege at Mountreuil-Bellay, employing tactics inspired by Roman military theorist Vegetius. Although plans to make him king of Ireland were abandoned, William became one of England's wealthiest men, receiving seven manors and the title of Viscount of Dieppe.
William FitzEmpress died suddenly on 30 January 1164 at the age of 27, reportedly of a broken heart, and was buried in the Cathedral of Notre-Dame in Rouen. His brother Henry blamed Thomas Becket for his death, which may have contributed to their later conflict.
Notable events
- 22 July 1136Born in Argentan, Normandy, as the youngest son of Empress Matilda and Geoffrey Plantagenet.
- 1150Brother Henry became Duke of Normandy after their father subdued the duchy.
- 1151Father Geoffrey Plantagenet died, leaving Henry as head of the Angevin Dynasty.
- 1153Stephen of Blois agreed to make Henry his successor, ending the civil war.
- 1154Brother Henry became King Henry II of England after Stephen's death.
- September 1155Henry considered making William king of Ireland, but plans were abandoned.
- 1156Participated in the siege of Chinon with brother Henry due to Geoffrey's rebellion.
- 1156Led the siege at Mountreuil-Bellay, successfully ending it using Vegetius' tactics.
- 1162Planned marriage to Isabel de Warenne was obstructed by Thomas Becket.
- 30 January 1164Died suddenly and was buried in the Cathedral of Notre-Dame in Rouen.
Other details
Death: Died at age 27, reportedly of a broken heart, and buried in the Cathedral of Notre-Dame in Rouen.
Children: 0
Parents: Geoffrey Plantagenet, Empress Matilda