1187–1189: Jerusalem, Taking the Cross, and Henry II's Death
p5Philip II Augustus: The Affirmation of Capetian Power (1180–1223) · HIGH MIDDLE AGES
Jerusalem’s fall in 1187 to Saladin transforms Western politics. Philip Augustus and Henry II must respond to papal crusade calls, but their conflict continues.
💀 Henry II’s Decline
The Plantagenet king is caught between crusade commitment and internal rebellion. His sons, incited by Philip, turn against him. Henry II dies in 1189, defeated.
🧠 Key Points to Remember
- Jerusalem’s fall reshapes political calculations.
- Henry II’s death removes Philip’s greatest adversary.