The coronation of Henry II at Westminster Abbey marked the formal beginning of his reign over England. Shortly after ascending to the throne, Henry took over from Stephen of Blois, who had ruled during a time of significant turmoil characterized by the Anarchy. This conflict stemmed from the question of succession following the death of Henry I, which had caused deep divisions among the nobility. In December, Henry II gathered a multitude of supporters and nobles for his coronation, symbolizing the reunification of the country under a single monarch.

The crown was placed on his head by the Archbishop of Canterbury, a significant religious leader of the time, in a grand ceremony that included lavish celebrations. This event not only emphasized the divine right of kings but also served to strengthen the connection between the monarchy and the Church. The attendance of key figures, including nobles and clergy, underscored the importance of alliances in Henry’s rule. Henry II's coronation also paved the way for major legal and governmental reforms, as he sought to consolidate his power and establish a more coherent legal framework across the realm.

As the first king of the Plantagenet dynasty, Henry's coronation was more than a mere formal ceremony; it represented a new direction for the governance of England, which would be defined by a strong royal authority and incredibly influential legal structures. His reign would later witness significant events such as the establishment of common law and the development of the English legal system. The coronation was the start of a dynamic and transformative period for the monarchy and England as a whole.