The Treaty of Wallingford

Date: The Treaty of Wallingford, pivotal in concluding the civil war known as The Anarchy, is not accurately dated to May 30, 1157. However, key events surrounding its negotiation occurred in 1153, culminating in the Treaty of Westminster on November 6, 1153, rather than on the date specified.

Context and Background

The Anarchy was a prolonged civil war in England from 1135 to 1153, characterized by a succession crisis following the death of Henry I. The chaos began when Henry’s daughter, Empress Matilda, contested the throne with her cousin, Stephen of Blois, who was crowned king despite Matilda being the designated heir. The resulting strife plunged England into years of intermittent warfare, feudal breakdown, and instability.

Key Developments Leading to the Treaty

• Death of Henry I (1135): The catalyst for The Anarchy, as his designated heir, Empress Matilda, prepared to claim the throne.
• Stephen’s Accession (1135): Stephen of Blois quickly claimed the throne, gaining some support among the nobility, leading to civil disorder.
• Civil War (1135-1153): The nation split between supporters of Stephen and Matilda, with neither side able to secure a decisive victory. Both sides suffered from shifting loyalties, leading to persistent stalemate.

The Treaty of Wallingford (1153)

The treaty, often associated with Wallingford, effectively ended the military conflict between Stephen and Matilda’s factions:

• Key Figures:

  • Stephen: As part of the treaty, he would remain king until his death.
  • Henry Plantagenet (later Henry II): Empress Matilda’s son, declared Stephen’s successor.

• Terms:

  • Henry would inherit the throne after Stephen, ending the bloodshed.
  • Nobility were to swear allegiance to Henry as the rightful heir.
  • Stephen retained the throne without passing it to his descendants.

Aftermath and Historical Significance

• Stephen’s Reign Ends: Stephen died on October 25, 1154, clearing the way for Henry II to ascend the throne, initiating the Angevin dynasty.
• Stabilization: Henry II’s rule marked a consolidation of royal authority and efforts to restore stability and restructure England’s governance.
• Legacy: The Treaty of Wallingford paved the way for long-term resolution of the succession crisis and helped in restoring the monarchy’s power over the barons, setting precedents for future succession crises and governance.

Conclusion

The Treaty of Wallingford was a crucial turning point that concluded a turbulent period of English history, ensuring a relatively peaceful transition of power and setting the stage for the foundational reign of Henry II.