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Year 7 - History

Henry II and the Angevin Empire

England under Henry II: how successfully did Henry reassert royal authority?

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils learn about England and the Angevin Empire under Henry II's rule. They then use their knowledge of Henry's rule to evaluate the degree to which he was a successful king.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to describe Henry II's control over the Angevin Empire after the Anarchy.

Key Notes

  • Henry II attempted to restore his royal lands after the Anarchy
  • Henry ruled over an area of Western Europe known as the Angevin Empire
  • The Angevin Empire was a collection of separate lands, each with their own local traditions and leadership
  • Henry II oversaw an invasion of Ireland in 1169, with the support of the Pope
  • Kings of England subsequently claimed to be rightful rulers of Ireland

Vocabulary To Learn

  • anarchy: when there is no government in society this is known as anarchy; it means political or social disorder
  • centralise: to centralise is when separate parts are brought together so that they are organised or controlled from one place
  • empire: a group of countries or provinces ruled from the centre by one person or a group of people is known as an empire
  • duchy: the area of land controlled by a duke or duchess is known as a duchy
  • allegiance: when somebody is loyal to a lord or monarch, this is allegiance

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • That France existed as a unified nation.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Summarise this historical learning in two key ideas.

Henry II attempted to restore his royal lands after the Anarchy. Henry ruled over an area of Western Europe known as the Angevin Empire.

2. Define this history term and explain why it matters in this topic. 'anarchy'

when there is no government in society this is known as anarchy; it means political or social disorder.

3. Correct this common history misconception using evidence language.

Mistake: That France existed as a unified nation. Correction: "Modern-day France" did not exist yet, instead the area we know as France, was actually a collection of separate lands/duchies .

More Lessons In This Unit

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