Empress Matilda and the English Succession Crisis

The episode follows Empress Matilda, daughter of Henry I, as she contests Stephen’s claim to the throne during the period now known as the Anarchy. It examines the political manoeuvres, baronial alliances, and military clashes that shaped her brief bid for kingship and ultimately paved the way for the Plantagenet dynasty. The narrative contrasts contemporary chroniclers with later interpretations to tease why historians still debate her role in England’s medieval governance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices