The England Invasion of 1066

A detailed Summary of The England Invasion of 1066

The England Invasion of 1066 and the Significance

In the year 1066 AD a dispute over the succession to the English throne occurred, because of a very unique situation. Edward the Confessor the King of England (1042-1066) died without any children to claim his throne. Moreover, because of this unique incident three people made claim to the English throne. This would cause a historical event, in 1066AD, the Norman Invasion and conquest of England.

Earl Harold Godwinson made a claim to the throne. One reason was Harold and Edward became brothers-in-law when the king married Harold's sister. Harold's powerful position, as an earl and his relationship to Edward and his support among his peers made him an understandable successor to the throne. His claim was also, strengthened when the dying Edward supposedly expressed that he had chosen Edward as the next King. In addition; the Witan a council of royal advisors, unanimously selected Harold as King. His coronation took place the same day as Edward was buried.

It is said part of the reason why the Witan quickness in choosing Harold was because of a fear that another invasion from Norway would occur. Which lead to the second rival of a second possible claim. Harold Hardrada, King

The third claimant to the throne was William, Duke of Normandy. William justified his claim through his blood relationship with Edward, they were cousins. In addition, according to William, Harold had sworn on the relics of a martyred saint that he would support William's right to the throne. In William's view when Harold made himself King he not only defied the wishes of Edward but had violated a sacred oath. Moreover, Harold's violation of his sacred oath enabled William to secure the support of the Pope who rejected Harold, consigning him and his supporters to an eternity in Hell.

The 1066 Invasion of England began when Hardrada of Norway struck first around mid September Hardrada was joined in his effort by Tostig, King Harold's brother in law. Tostig has resentment because of a betrayal that had occurred in Tostig perspective. When Harold heard of the invasion he quickly marched and surprised Hardrada army. Hardrada fell and then the King's brother, Tostig fell also. Two days later William on September 27 the Normans made landfall on the English coast. With very quick and devastating military battle William crushed and took the legitimacy of the throne of Harold on October 14, 1066 in the battle of Hastings. He landed his troops and through battle the English line gave away and King Harold fell. William's victory was complete and o

Some common words found in the essay are:
Earls England, King England, King William, Harold King, Harold Edward, Harthacut Danish, King Harold's, Battle Hastings, VII Anglo-Saxon, Moreover Harold's, king england, english throne, claim english throne, ruler england, claim throne, battle hastings, harold heard, harold king, claim english, land owners, relationship edward,

Approximate Word count = 909
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)

Category: History