Treaty of Alton facts for kids

The Treaty of Alton was an important agreement signed in 1101. It was made between two brothers, Henry Beauclerc and Robert Curthose. In this treaty, Robert agreed that Henry could be the king of England. In return, Henry promised to pay Robert money every year and give him some lands. This agreement helped to stop a big problem about who would rule England.

Why Was the Treaty of Alton Needed?

Who Was King Before Henry?

The king before Henry was his brother, William II of England. William died in a hunting accident in the year 1100. Robert Curthose, the oldest brother, was supposed to be the next king. He was the "heir presumptive," meaning he was expected to inherit the throne.

How Did Henry Become King?

When William died, Robert was away on the First Crusade. This was a long journey to the Holy Land. Because Robert was not in England, his youngest brother, Henry, saw a chance. Many important people, called barons, did not like Robert very much. So, Henry was able to become king with a lot of support from the people.

Robert's Return and Invasion

After Henry became king, Robert came back from the Holy Land. His advisor, Ranulf Flambard, encouraged him to fight for the throne. So, Robert secretly landed his army at Portsmouth. King Henry met him at the town of Alton. Henry had already made himself popular with the nobles and the Church. He did this by issuing something called the Charter of Liberties. Because he was so popular, Henry was strong enough to stop Robert's invasion.

What Did the Treaty of Alton Say?

How Did They Settle the Fight?

Instead of fighting a big war, the brothers decided to talk and make a deal. This is called a diplomatic settlement. They signed the Treaty of Alton.

What Did Robert Get?

In the treaty, Robert agreed to give up his claim to be the King of England. In return, Henry promised to pay him 3,000 marks every year. A mark was a type of money used back then. Henry also gave Robert almost all of his lands in a place called the Duchy of Normandy.

What Else Did They Agree To?

Robert and his followers were allowed to go back to Normandy safely. Henry promised not to punish them. The brothers also agreed to help each other. They said they would name each other as heirs. This meant if one king died without children, the other brother would become king. They also promised to work together to punish anyone who betrayed them.

What Happened After the Treaty?

Did the Peace Last?

The agreement did not last for a long time. In 1105, King Henry invaded Normandy. The very next year, in 1106, Henry's army defeated Robert's army at the Battle of Tinchebray.

What Happened to Robert?

After the battle, Robert was captured and put in prison. He stayed in prison for many years and died in 1134. After this, Normandy became a part of the English crown. It stayed under English control for more than 100 years.