Empress Matilda part 7: A Fight for the Throne

Henry I's sudden death led to a succession crisis. His daughter Matilda faced challenges due to her estrangement from her father, her gender, and her husband's foreign status. Despite her efforts to secure her claim, her cousin Stephen seized the throne, backed by the church. Matilda's absence in England and her pregnancy further complicated her position.

What was the main reason for the nobles' hesitation to support Matilda's claim to the throne?

• Her estrangement from her father

• Her lack of military experience

• Her gender

• Her husband's foreign status

Why was Matilda's husband, Geoffrey, a point of contention for the nobles?

• He was a foreigner

• He had no royal blood

• He was unpopular with the public

• He was too young

What action did Matilda take upon hearing of her father's death?

• She traveled to England

• She seized castles in Normandy

• She sought support from the church

• She negotiated with the nobles

What prevented Matilda from advancing her claim to the English throne?

• Her father's will

• Her husband's rebellion

• Her pregnancy

• Her lack of support

What was Stephen's first strategic move to secure the throne?

• Gaining support from the nobles

• Negotiating with Matilda

• Crossing the channel quickly

• Securing the castles in Normandy

Who was Matilda's main supporter in her claim to the throne?

• Her husband Geoffrey

• Her half-brother Robert of Gloucester

• The Archbishop of Canterbury

• The Count of Blois

What was a significant challenge to Stephen's claim to the throne?

• His foreign heritage

• His previous oath to Matilda

• His lack of military experience

• His lack of noble support