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18
William I The Conqueror (1066-1087) (the Norman Dynasty) died as a result of falling from his horse in a
battle in France, was succeeded by his two sons, one after the other:
William II (1087-1100) was cruel but a brave soldier, little loved and little missed when he died.
Henry I (1100-1135) was scholarly and well educated. His daughter was married to the German Emperor
Henry V, and later upon his death to Geophrey of Anjou; the son of Geophrey of Anjou (Angevin) became the
first Plantagenet*.
* Planta genista – Latin for "broom".
Henry II (1154-1189) was friendly with Thomas Becket, a humble clerk, who was appointed the archbishop
of Canterbury. Henry misjudged this man who considered his first loyalty to be the Church and not the King.