Throughout the years 1100-1400 and beyond, England proved itself to be the best representation of a national monarchy. It was at this time that this began to happen with the Plantagenet rulers. The name “Plantagenêt” takes its origin from the broom that Geoffrey, Count of Anjou, used as a personal emblem (Hamilton, 1). This plant was called Planta genesta (Hamilton, 1). Geoffrey's son, Henry II, is considered the first Plantagenet king, however, he and his sons Richard I and John are more commonly referred to as the Angevins (Hamilton, 1). The rest of the Plantagenets include Henry III, Edward I, Edward II, Edward III and Richard II. All these kings had to overcome and face political and social challenges. Some of these leaders strengthened the state while others weakened it. Interactions and involvement within the monarchy, the Hundred Years' War, social conflicts and the Catholic Church all shaped the monarchy and the state of England as a whole. In every period within a monarchy, there will be strong rulers and weak rulers. The Plantagenets are no exception to this. While many of the great Plantagenet leaders strengthened the state of the English monarchy, some also weakened it. From Henry II onwards, he was not only king of England, but also of Ireland and France (Dutton, 280). King Henry II was known for his many legal reforms, most involving the rights and powers of the Church. Some of these reforms reorganizing English government include improving the quality of jurisdiction of royal officials, regulating royal revenues, and emphasizing rules within government and the public (Dutton, 280). After his death, his son Richard I, also known as Richard the Lionheart, took his place. Richard I was rebellious...... middle of paper ......h, England was still able to remain a monarchy throughout 1100-1400 and still is today. Every government faces weak leaders. However, while some rulers weakened the English state, others managed to return it to a strong state. The Hundred Years' War greatly increased the national patriotism of the English monarchy, even in defeat. Their use and demonstration of the longbow during this war also showed their advanced military technology. The Great Famine and the Black Death had a huge impact on everyone's lives during this time. Fortunately, the State of England did not completely die out and was able to rebuild itself afterwards. Even despite social uprisings and problems within the Church, the English monarchy emerged as the main authoritative figure. All these reasons show how great the English monarchy was and still is today..