Empress Matilda vs Thomas Becket

Upon the death of her father Henry I, Matilda asserted her right to the English throne, which had been promised to her. However, her cousin Stephen of Blois seized the crown, sparking a prolonged civil war known as the Anarchy.

Matilda's forces, led by Robert of Gloucester, captured King Stephen at the Battle of Lincoln. This victory allowed Matilda to briefly control the English throne, though she was never crowned.

After being elected 'Lady of the English' and preparing for coronation, Matilda was driven out of London by a hostile mob. This setback prevented her formal coronation and allowed Stephen's faction to regroup.

Matilda was besieged at Oxford Castle by Stephen's forces. She escaped dramatically across the frozen River Thames, fleeing to Wallingford. This escape preserved her cause but marked a turning point in the war.

Matilda's son Henry FitzEmpress negotiated the Treaty of Wallingford with Stephen, ending the Anarchy. The treaty recognized Stephen as king for life but named Henry as his successor, securing Matilda's dynastic claim.

Becket was appointed Archbishop of Canterbury by King Henry II, expecting his support. Instead, Becket defended church rights, leading to a bitter conflict with the king.

Becket fled to France after the Constitutions of Clarendon, which he opposed. He remained in exile for six years, appealing to the Pope and King Louis VII for support against Henry II.

Four knights, acting on Henry II's words, assassinated Becket in Canterbury Cathedral. His murder shocked Christendom, leading to his canonization and making Canterbury a major pilgrimage site.