What were the consequences of the Angevin Empire under Henry II?

The Angevin Empire under Henry II led to significant legal and administrative reforms, but also sparked conflict and rebellion.

Under Henry II, the Angevin Empire, which spanned England, parts of Wales, the eastern half of Ireland and the western half of France, saw significant changes in governance and law. Henry II is often credited with the development of the English common law system. He established royal courts and sent out travelling justices to enforce the King's law across the kingdom. This helped to centralise power and authority, reducing the influence of local feudal lords.

Henry II also implemented administrative reforms. He introduced the 'exchequer' system for managing royal finances, which improved efficiency and accountability. He also established a system of royal sheriffs to oversee local administration, further centralising power. These reforms helped to strengthen the monarchy and laid the groundwork for the development of a more unified and organised state.

However, the Angevin Empire under Henry II was also marked by conflict and rebellion. Henry's attempts to assert control over the Church led to a bitter dispute with Thomas Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury, which resulted in Becket's murder in 1170. This event caused a major scandal and damaged Henry's reputation.

Furthermore, Henry's rule sparked rebellion within his own family. His sons, supported by their mother Eleanor of Aquitaine, rebelled against him in 1173. This rebellion was ultimately unsuccessful, but it marked the beginning of a period of instability and conflict within the Angevin Empire.

In addition, Henry's attempts to maintain control over his vast territories led to ongoing conflict with France. This culminated in the loss of Normandy and Anjou, key territories within the Angevin Empire, to the French king Philip II in 1204. This marked the beginning of the end for the Angevin Empire and set the stage for the subsequent conflicts between England and France.

In conclusion, the Angevin Empire under Henry II had significant consequences, both positive and negative. It led to important legal and administrative reforms, but also sparked conflict and rebellion, ultimately leading to the empire's decline.