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The documentary series taking a comprehensive look at British history. Henry II built a great medieval empire - which was then torn apart by his scheming family.

Henry II built one of the greatest empires the medieval world had seen - only to see his wife, Eleanor of Aquitaine, and his scheming sons tear it all to pieces. He also created the jury system and the first legal statute books, but is best remembered as the man who ordered the murder of the Archbishop of Canterbury, Thomas Becket, his best friend turned bitterest enemy.

56 minutes

Music Played

  • Vogel, Het Berentrio, En Hun Vriendjes

    Rommel De Bom

Credits

Role Contributor
Presenter Simon Schama
Executive Producer Martin Davidson
Producer Clare Beavan

Broadcasts

Quiz: How's your British history knowledge?

Quiz: How's your British history knowledge?

Quiz featuring seven key moments between 3000 BC and 1603 AD from the first series.

Quiz: Can you answer these seven history questions?

Quiz: Can you answer these seven history questions?

Quiz featuring seven key moments between 1603 and 1776 from the second series.