Empress Matilda (Matilda of England)

Empress Matilda, also known as Matilda of England, was a 12th-century noblewoman and daughter of King Henry I of England. She was designated as heir to her father’s throne, which was unusual at the time. After Henry’s death, her cousin Stephen claimed the crown, leading to a conflict known as The Anarchy. Matilda contived to become England’s first female monarch, actively governing parts of the country. Her efforts paved the way for her son, Henry II, who eventually became king, establishing the Plantagenet dynasty. Matilda’s legacy highlights her role as a pioneering female ruler in medieval England.