Events preceding the Battle of Hastings
It is important to understand the events which preceded the Norman Invasion, the Battle of Hastings and the Norman Conquest. Each of the individual events preceding the Battle of Hastings had a major impact on the event. The different events make clear why there was so much conflict surrounding the claim to the English throne. It explains the family ties and history of each of the opposing factions and provides an insight into Medieval times. It may come as a surprise that Duke William the Bastard and the Norman contingent believed that their quest to gain the English throne was a Holy War. Pope Alexander II had given his Holy Blessing to the venture and it therefore received the same level of importance as a Holy Crusade against the Infidels! The appearance of Haley's comet in April 1066 was interpreted in different ways by each faction. An illustration of the famous comet is even included in the Bayeux Tapestry following the Battle of Hastings. Learn about the Shipwreck and of Harold Godwinson in 1065 and his subsequent meeting with Duke William the Bastard. What agreement did they come to? Did Harold agree to William taking the throne of England on the death of Edward the Confessor? This section provides answers to all of the questions which relate to the Events preceding the Battle of Hastings - 1066. The following links provide information about the key events which led to the invasion and the conflict at the Battle of Hastings. Events preceding the Battle of Hastings The above links provide facts and information about the history and kings of the Anglo Saxons - background to the proud English who fell to the French at the Battle of Hastings in 1066. There were various claims to the throne of England prior to the Battle of Hastings. All of these claims to the English throne are detailed in this section. |