Medieval Information

Henry II (5 March 1133 - 6 July 1189) ruled not only as the king of England, but was also the count of Anjou and the Duke of Normandy.

His grandfather was Henry I, who had also been a king long before him.

His sobriquets were very numerous and he was often referred to as "The Lion of Justice (like his grandfather)", the "Curt Mantle" and the "Fitz Empress".

On May 18 1152, Henry II married a young and powerful lady known as Eleanor of Aquitaine who also added numerous pieces of land to his reign including Touraine, Aquitaine and Glascony.

Henry II was enthralled in conquering land and expanding his territory. Henceforth, he possessed - at one time - parts of Ireland, Scotland and western France.

Before the time of his death, Henry II divided his title among his five sons who fought against Henry II himself. This angered him and fought them back only to be killed by Henry's third son, Richard the Lionheart.

Nevertheless, Henry II is remembered as one of England's greatest rulers for he successfully adhered many laws and gave much justice to the poor.