The Plantagenet dynasty was a royal family that ruled England from the 12th to the 15th centuries. It began with Henry II, who became king in 1154, and included notable monarchs like Richard the Lionheart and King John. The dynasty is known for significant events such as the signing of the Magna Carta in 1215, which limited the powers of the king and laid the groundwork for modern democracy. The Plantagenets were involved in various conflicts, including the Hundred Years' War against France. The dynasty eventually split into two branches: the Lancasters and the Yorks, leading to the Wars of the Roses. The Plantagenet line ended with Richard III, who was defeated in