1138. David I. of Scotland invaded England to support the cause of his niece Matilda. He was defeated at Northallerton (Aug. 22). This battle generally called the Battle of the Standard.
1139. Peace concluded with Scotland. Matilda, accompanied by her natural brother, Robert of Gloucester, invaded England. Civil war, which lasted for several years, and enabled the nobles to plunder and oppress the people.
1141. Stephen defeated near Lincoln, and taken prisoner (Feb. 2). Robert, in retreating from Winchester, captured, and afterwards exchanged for Stephen.
1147. Death of Robert of Gloucester. Matilda retired to Normandy.
1152. Matilda’s son Henry married Eleanor, the divorced wife of Louis VII., and thus acquired Poitou and Aquitaine.
1153. Treaty of Winchester, which provided for the succession of Henry on the death of Stephen.
THE PLANTAGENET LINE.
Henry II.