3. Henry II vs. Thomas Becket
King Henry II’s close friendship with Thomas Becket deteriorated into a bitter conflict over church authority. Their dispute intensified when Becket excommunicated three bishops who had crowned Henry’s son as co-king, a ceremony traditionally performed by the Archbishop of Canterbury. In response, Henry reportedly exclaimed, “Will no one rid me of this turbulent priest?” This led to Becket’s murder in Canterbury Cathedral on December 29, 1170, a tragedy that redefined the power balance between the crown and the church. (history.com)
