# Philip II begins Capetian territorial expansion (1180)

URL: https://history-france.com/timeline/1180-philip-ii-begins-capetian-territorial-expansion
Location: France

Philip Augustus used warfare, marriage and administration to strengthen the crown against powerful vassals. Within the broader Capetian France period, The Capetian monarchy expanded rapidly under Philip Augustus and his successors. Royal courts, taxation, Gothic culture and crusading flourished as the crown absorbed territories and strengthened institutions. At this point in the timeline, the relevant governing authority is Philip II Augustus (King of France). Philip II begins Capetian territorial expansion is a useful marker in the longer transformation of political authority, society and culture in France. The event is positioned here so visitors can read it alongside changes in government, warfare, society, religion, culture and France’s wider international setting.

## Why it matters
Philip II begins Capetian territorial expansion is a useful marker in the longer transformation of political authority, society and culture in France.

Ruler at the time: [Philip II Augustus](https://history-france.com/rulers/philip-ii-augustus)

## Sources
- [Wikipedia topic lookup — Philip II begins Capetian territorial expansion](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:Search?search=Philip+II+begins+Capetian+territorial+expansion&go=Go)
- [Encyclopaedia Britannica topic lookup — Philip II begins Capetian territorial expansion](https://www.britannica.com/search?query=Philip+II+begins+Capetian+territorial+expansion)
- [Wikipedia — Timeline of French history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Timeline_of_French_history)