The Battle of Hastings and the Norman Conquest of 1066 Study Notes

Whose death in January 1066 triggered the succession crisis?

King Edward the Confessor. He died without leaving a clear heir to the throne.

What Viking king invaded northern England just weeks before Hastings?

• Harald Hardrada. King Harold II had to march north to defeat him first.

At what battle did King Harold II defeat the Vikings right before Hastings?

The Battle of Stamford Bridge. This left the English army exhausted and depleted.

On what specific hill did the English set up their defensive line?

Senlac Hill. This location provided a strategic advantage for the English forces during the battle.

Why did William have high morale and international support?

• Pope Alexander II blessed his invasion. William carried a papal banner into battle.

What major tactical advantage did William’s army have over Harold's?

• Cavalry. The Normans fought on horseback, while the Anglo-Saxons fought on foot.

What rumor almost caused the Norman army to panic and retreat early on?

A rumor that William was dead. William had to lift his helmet to show his face.

On what symbolic day was William the Conqueror crowned King of England?

• Christmas Day, 1066. He was crowned at Westminster Abbey.