Presented By: Robin B. Section 1 Group 2 Period 5

 Norman Conquest was when Duke William won the backings of the Pope. He and his knights triumphed over Harold at the Battle of Hastings and over the next 300 years, a gradual blend had occurred between Norman French and Anglo-Saxon customs, languages, and traditions.

 Henry II, and educated king, was unable to write new laws, and instead had to follow accepted customs. In order to enforce new laws he sent out traveling justice’s. The decisions of the royal courts became the foundation of the English common law. Royal courts were chosen over those of nobles, or the Church.

 Trying to extend royal power led to a bitter dispute between Henry and the Church. Thomas Becket, the archbishop of Canterbury and once a close friend of Henry’s, opposed of his move. This conflict simmered for years until Henry’s fury exploded. He sent knights to murder Thomas Becket, and was not taking the blame for his death.

 John, the son of Henry, wasn’t a favorable ruler. He faced three powerful enemies during his reign: King Philip II of France, Pope Innocent III and his English nobles. He had lost war against Philip II and had to surrender English-held lands in Anjou and Normandy. Selecting a new archbishop of Canterbury caused a conflict between John and Innocent III…

 John was excommunicated by the pope because he rejected his nominee, He also placed England under the interdict, which forbade the Church’s services.

 John was forced to sign the Magna Carta by a group of rebellious barons. This affirmed a long list of rights. He made an agreement not to raise taxes without consulting his Great Council and clergy.

 The Parliament was formed to keep on with the Magna Carta during the 1200’s. This acquired a larger role in government. Because it set up the framework for England’s legislature, it was later known as the Model Parliament.

 Monarchs didn’t rule over unified kingdoms. In 987 Hugh Capet was elected to fill the vacant throne because he was no threat. Capetians enjoyed an unbroken succession for 300 years.

 An outstanding shrewd ruler and French king named Philip Augustus paid middle-class officials who would owe their loyalty to him, instead of appointing nobles to fill government positions. He organized a standing government, introduced new national taxes and granted charters.

Was the most admired French ruler who ascended to the throne in He pursued religious goals that were acceptable to Christians in his day. He wasn’t fond of heretics, Jews and led French knights to wars against Muslims. He expanded the royal courts, outlawed private wars, and ended serfdom in his lands.

 Louis’ grandson, who ruthlessly extended royal power. He tried to raise cash by collecting new taxes. These actions led to a clash between him and Pope Boniface VIII. He’d arrest any clergy who failed to do as he commanded. Philip sent out troops after Boniface as their quarrel escalated. When a new pope was elected he ensured that the future French rulers would control religion within their own kingdom.