Treaty of Alton

Quick Facts: Who was Treaty of Alton?

Subject:

Treaty of Alton

Known for:

1101 agreement recognizing Henry Beauclerc as King of England from Robert Curthose.

Verified Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

The Treaty of Alton was an agreement signed in 1101 between Henry Beauclerc and his older brother Robert Curthose in which Robert agreed to recognize Henry as the king of England in exchange for a yearly stipend and other concessions. The agreement temporarily ended a crisis in the succession of the Anglo-Norman kings. King William II of England died in a hunting accident in 1100. His elder brother, Robert Curthose, had at one point been acknowledged as his heir presumptive.

Career & Major Achievements

Robert's absence in the First Crusade at the time of William's death, as well as his poor reputation among the Anglo-Norman barons, allowed the youngest brother, Henry Beauclerc, to claim the throne with popular support. Robert returned from the Holy Land after Henry's coronation. Encouraged by his advisor Ranulf Flambard, he invaded the Kingdom of England in order to claim the throne.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

He landed secretly at Portsmouth and was met by Henry at the town of Alton. Henry had solidified his popularity with the nobles and the Church by his issuance of the Charter of Liberties, however, and his popularity allowed him to resist Robert's invasion. The dispute was settled diplomatically.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 1100: 1100 Milestone — King William II of England died in a hunting accident in 1100.
2. 1101: 1101 Milestone — The Treaty of Alton was an agreement signed in 1101 between Henry Beauclerc and his older brother Robert Curthose in which Robert agreed to recognize Henry as the king of England in exchange for a yearly stipend and other concessions.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Treaty of Alton

True or False: “True or false: The Treaty of Alton required Robert Curthose to renounce all claims to the English throne permanently.”

Answer (FALSE ❌): False. While Robert recognized Henry's kingship, the treaty stipulated that Robert was granted a yearly stipend and other concessions, indicating continued, albeit subordinate, rights.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

• Dobrodeia of Kiev — Historical peer (Born in 1101) (1101): Byzantine Empress and Scholar, wife of Alexios Komnenos, noted for her literary works.
• Heloise — Historical peer (Born in 1101) (1101): Renowned medieval scholar, philosopher, and abbess of French letters.
• Abd al-Mu'min — Historical peer (Born in 1100) (1100): Founder and first Caliph of the powerful Almohad Caliphate.
• Alan Rufus — Historical peer (Born in 1100) (1100): Breton nobleman and kinsman of William the Conqueror, granted the Honour of Richmond.

Frequently Asked Questions about Treaty of Alton