Chronicles of England, Scotland and Ireland (2 of 6): England (05 of 12) Henrie the Second

"Chronicles of England, Scotland and Ireland (2 of 6): England (05 of 12)" is a historical account likely written in the early 17th century. This work details the reign of King Henry II of England, examining the political and social dynamics of England, Scotland, and Ireland during his time. The narrative covers significant events such as his ascension to the throne, various military campaigns, and the early tensions between him and Thomas Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury. The opening of the text introduces Henry II as he begins his reign in 1154, following the death of King Stephen. It describes his coronation in London and his efforts to consolidate power, including the expulsion of foreign soldiers and confiscation of castles, which had previously been built by private individuals under King Stephen's rule. Additionally, it highlights the birth of his sons and the familial tensions that arise as his younger brother Geoffrey revolts. This portion sets the stage for Henry II's complex relationships with nobles, his ambitious governance, and foreshadows the conflicts with Becket that will shape his later rule. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Raphael Holinshed was an English chronicler, who was most famous for his work on The Chronicles of England, Scotlande, and Irelande, commonly known as Holinshed's Chronicles. It was the "first complete printed history of England composed as a continuous narrative". The Holinshed Chronicles was a major influence on many Renaissance writers, such as Shakespeare, Spenser, Daniel and Marlowe.