The restoration of royal authority under Henry II: the barons; royal finance; justice and the law
Henry II rebuilt the king's power after years of civil war. He did this by bringing barons under control, recovering royal income, and creating a fairer, king-run legal system.
Real World
Henry's introduction of the Assize of Clarendon (1166) established royal circuit judges — 'justices in eyre' — who travelled the country hearing criminal cases, systematically pulling jurisdiction away from baronial courts and into royal hands.
Exam Focus
For legal reforms, name specific assizes and link each to the precise problem it solved — vague references to 'common law' will not score highly.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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