Empress Matilda, born in 1102, was the daughter of King Henry I of England and Matilda of Scotland. She became the first female ruler of England, although her reign was contested. Matilda was married to Henry V, Holy Roman Emperor, which earned her the title of Empress. After her father's death in 1135, she claimed the English throne, leading to a civil war known as the Anarchy. Despite her efforts, Matilda faced significant opposition, particularly from her cousin, Stephen of Blois. She was never officially crowned but played a crucial role in the political landscape of 12th-century England. Matilda's legacy influenced future generations of female rulers.