The Welsh Wars

Gruffydd ap Llewelyn

Declared himself king of Wales, posing a threat to King Edward of England's rule.

Alliance with Aelfgar

Formed an alliance with Aelfgar and ransacked Hereford, leading to a peace deal with Harold.

Recognition as King

Gruffydd defeated Leofgar and Harold's attempt to fight against him failed, leading to his recognition as king in 1056.

Alliance with Magnus

Allied with Aelfgar and Magnus, son of the King of Norway, for more attacks from Wales in 1058.

Welsh Campaign

Harold organized a campaign against Gruffydd in Wales, burning the palace at Rhuddlan and ravaging the Welsh coastline.

Tostig, Earl of Northumbria

Tostig's brutal tactics, raised taxes, and unpopularity led to a rebellion in Northumbria in 1065.

Northumbrian Rebellion

Rebels rose up against Tostig, slaughtered his housecarls, and plundered his treasure, leading to his exile to Flanders.

Appointment of Morcar

Morcar was appointed as the new Earl of Northumbria after Tostig's exile, and rebels marched south, sacking Lincoln, Nottingham, and Derby.