Empress Matilda

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.