Stephen of Blois

Stephen was crowned king of England on December 22, 1135, after the death of Henry I. He seized the throne despite Henry's designation of his daughter Matilda as heir.

Stephen was captured by forces loyal to Matilda at the Battle of Lincoln on February 2, 1141. He was imprisoned, and Matilda briefly ruled as Lady of the English.

Stephen was released in exchange for Matilda's half-brother Robert of Gloucester, who had been captured. Stephen was restored as king, and the civil war continued.

Stephen and Matilda's son Henry Plantagenet signed the Treaty of Wallingford. Stephen recognized Henry as his heir, ending the Anarchy civil war.

Stephen died on October 25, 1154, at Dover. His death allowed Henry Plantagenet to become king as Henry II, founding the Plantagenet dynasty.