A Saxon warrior describes what he saw at the battle of Stamford Bridge, and how it began with a conversation between Harold Godwinson and his brother Tostig who had sided with the Viking King Harald Hardrada

Matilda returned to Normandy, where her husband had become the Duke and she the Duchess, taking the lands from Stephen. As Stephen grew older and support for him was waning, Henry of Anjou's claim to the throne grew stronger. Henry was...

Empress Matilda finally makes it back to England and soon begins gaining support in England, both from King Henry I's second wife and from nobles who were loyal to King Henry I. Meanwhile, Stephen's trusted advisor and younger brother,...

With Stephen, King of England locked in chains in Bristol, Matilda once again gained support with important English nobles, including Stephen's brother, Bishop Henry. Henry helped her to win the support of the church and she was given...

The capture of Lincoln Castle and the subsequent battle for it were key events in the fight for the throne. The castle was taken by Ranulf de Gernon, Earl of Chester and son-in-law of Robert, Earl of Gloucester. King Stephen attempted to...

Mathilda, Queen Consort, resorted to warfare in an effort to retain control of the throne for Stephen. Londoners had been promised trade routes and prosperity under King Stephen, so they did Mathilda's bidding. This led to Robert of...

England became divided between those who supported King Stephen, those who supported Empress Matilda, and those who wouldn't pick a side.

As Matilda begins her rule of England, many called found her to be arrogant and abrasive, qualities that would normally be seen as an asset in a male ruler. It was this apparent arrogance that led Bishop Henry to leave her court and plot...

A Viking warrior describes his experience of the battle of Stamford Bridge; the fierce battle and fighting retreat they had to make when the Saxons overcame them