GCSE history 10 - the norman conquest

who were the 4 claimants to the English throne after Edward the confessor’s death

who were the 4 claimants to the English throne after Edward the confessor’s death

Edgar Aethling, Harald Hardrada, Harold Godwinson, William of Normandy

where did Harald and Tostig’s forces land in England for invasion 1066

east of England, based in York

how did Harold prepare for invasion in 1066

• gathered the fyrd

• collected large amounts of tax

what was Edgar Aethling’s claim to the throne

grand nephew of Edward the Confessor - claiming blood link

what was William of Normandy’s claim to the throne

alleged promise from Edward the Confessor (1051) and promise from Harold Godwinson (1064)

why did Harold get coronated so quickly after Edward the Confessor’s death

• he had no ancestral link to the throne - needed to secure his right as heir

• coronation shows God’s approval of the monarch - boosted support for Harold’s reign

when was William of Normandy allegedly promised the throne

• 1051 - promised by Edward the Confessor

• 1064 - promised by Harold Godwinson

what Harald Hardrada’s claim to the throne

claim through previous monarch (King Cnut) - claiming ancestral link

what was Harold Godwinson’s claim to the throne

• most powerful noble in England - claiming popular vote

• Edward allegedly entrusted Harold with the English crown on his deathbed - claiming support from previous king

summary of the Battle of Fulford

September 20th 1066 - Harold and Tostig defeat English nobles Edwin and Morcar

what challenges did Harold face in spring 1066

• supposed threat of Norman invasion

• invasion from Harald and Tostig on east coast of England

summary of Battle of Stamford Bridge

September 25th 1066 - Harold’s forces quick march north, surprising Harald’s troops

Both Harald and Tostig were killed.