The tragedy of the English monarchy: the wreck of the "White ship"

On November 25, 1120, a "White ship" was wrecked in the waters of the English channel, carrying Anglo-Norman aristocrats, including William Eteling, the only legitimate son and heir of king Henry I of England. As a result of this event, a serious crisis arose in England, which led to a feudal anarchy that lasted for almost 20 years.

The white ship was built in Normandy, using the latest achievements of science and technology at that time. When king Henry I suppressed the rebellion of the barons in Normandy, he was offered to return to his homeland on the "White ship". However, he had already arranged to use another ship, and the "White ship" for the journey was handed over to his son and the nobles. There were about three hundred people on Board: knights, noblewomen, illegitimate children of the ruler, barons. The ship was delayed for some time, and after leaving, Wilhelm ordered the sailors to row harder in order to increase their speed and catch up with the other ships. Since the crossing of The English channel took place at night, the ship hit a rock in the dark and quickly began to sink. The entire crew and passengers drowned, although there are legends that some people managed to escape.

Since William was the king's only legitimate heir, his death complicated the transfer of power. The revolt that broke out in England was supported by the king of France: it was planned to put William Clyton on the throne, against the wishes of Henry I, who chose Stephen of Blois as the heir. Then his opinion changed – this time he chose his daughter Matilda. This led to a protracted civil war that ended in 1154. As a result, Matilda's son, Henry II Plantagenet, ascended the English throne.