Battle of Wilton Boulogne to England and claimed the throne. He quickly gained the support of London's magnates and the church, and seized control of the treasury at Winchester. He was crowned king on 22 December 1135. By 1138, Matilda had gathered enough support to challenge Stephen for the throne. Her supporters were led by her half-brother Robert Earl of Gloucester. The ensuing civil war lasted until 6 November 1153 when, by the Treaty of Wallingford, Stephen recognised Matilda's son Henry as heir to the throne. By 1142 both sides had become cautious of risking open battle, and the civil war became a
History of the Constitution of the United Kingdom event completely changed the course of English history. Until 1066, England was ruled by monarchs that were elected by the "witan", (meaning "wise"). There were various elements of democracy at a local level too, known as folkmoot. Henry I of England (c. 1068 – 1 December 1135) was king from 1100 to 1135, ruling through the Curia regis. When he ascended to the throne he granted the Charter of Liberties, a series of decrees and assurances to the barons. Probably the most important statement in the charter is at the beginning, where the king admits ""that by the mercy of