The speed in which Henry took over the throne led some to believe that Rufus was murdered at Henry's instigation. ... At the time, their were three strong claimants: Robert, Earl of Gloucester, Henry's illegitimate son, Stephen, Count of Blois, Henry's nephew, and Henry's only surviving legitimate child, Matilda. ... In 1114 Matilda, at the age of 12, married Holy Roman Emperor Henry V. ... Henry V died in 1125 leaving the Empress Matilda a twenty-three year old widow without any children. Henry needed to find her a new husband quickly. ...

• Word Count: 4692
• Approx Pages: 19
• Grade Level: High School