Winchester, battle of

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Winchester, battle of, 1141. In February 1141 Matilda captured her rival Stephen at Lincoln and imprisoned him at Bristol. But she quarrelled with his brother Henry of Blois, bishop of Winchester, and began a siege of his castle. Stephen's queen then led a relief force which, on 14 September, scattered the besiegers and captured Robert of Gloucester, Matilda's illegitimate brother and chief supporter. When Stephen and Robert were exchanged, Matilda lost the advantage she had gained at Lincoln.

J. A. Cannon

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