2-376-506 - Historica Graphica Collection/Heritage Images

Wreck of the White Ship, Normandy, France, 1120 (1864). The wreck of the White Ship claimed the life of the 17 year old William Adelin (1103-1120), the only legitimate male heir of King Henry I (1068-1135). He was killed after returning to the ship in an attempt to rescue his illegitimate half-sister, the Countess of Perche. The boat sank after being overwhelmed by the number of survivors trying to get aboard. His death ultimately led to civil war as Henry's daughter, Matilda, and Stephen of Blois, a grandson of William the Conqueror, disputed the throne after Henry died.