Medieval map illustrating the Angevin Empire and the Duchy of Normandy around the 12th and early 13th centuries. It highlights the territorial extent of English kings' domains spanning Normandy, Anjou, Poitou, and more, before France reclaimed them.
Background
After the Norman Conquest of 1066, William the Conqueror became both King of England and Duke of Normandy.
This dual role meant English kings were technically vassals of the French king for their French territories.
Over time, the English crown gained more French land through marriage and inheritance, creating what historians call the Angevin Empire under Henry II.
This created ongoing tension, as the French kings sought to limit the power of their supposed “vassals,” who were often stronger and wealthier than themselves.
King John and the Loss of Normandy
John inherited the throne in 1199 after the death of his brother, Richard the Lionheart.
John’s rule was marked by:
Military failures in France.
Poor relations with his nobles at home, who resented his heavy taxation to fund wars.
A reputation for cruelty, favoritism, and weakness.
Philip II of France took advantage of these weaknesses:
Invaded Normandy and other Angevin lands between 1202 and 1204.
By 1204, Normandy had been lost to the French crown.
John’s defeat at the Battle of Bouvines (1214) cemented this loss.
Political and Symbolic Consequences
Political Impact
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Note
The Norman Conquest of 1066 marked a pivotal moment in European history when William the Conqueror became both King of England and Duke of Normandy. This unique situation created a complex web of feudal relationships and political tensions.
William's dual role meant he was both a sovereign king and a vassal to the French king
The English crown gained more French territories through strategic marriages and inheritance
This led to the formation of the Angevin Empire under Henry II
DefinitionAngevin EmpireA collection of territories ruled by the English crown, including England and large parts of France, during the 12th and 13th centuries.
AnalogyThink of William's situation like being both a CEO of one company and a manager in another company owned by a rival - it created constant conflicts of interest.