ABSTRACT
Eleanor of Aquitaine used marital alliances to become one of the most important women in medieval Europe. Deeply disappointed by her married life, she nonetheless exercised great influence on the development of culture in her day. Eleanor was born to William X, duke of Aquitaine, in 1122. Her father's lands, richer than even those of the king of France in the north, made Aquitaine one of the most coveted territories in Europe. Although Eleanor rarely had the opportunity to impose her will in politics, she had significant impact upon the diplomatic and cultural history of medieval Europe. The territory Eleanor brought to the English throne was highly valued by Henry's successors. Eleanor made brilliant contributions to European culture. Her own court was considered one of the most cultivated of the day, and her example inspired other rulers. This was especially noticeable among her children.
