In 1066, Edward the Confessor, King of England, died and left behind a succession question. His heir was just a boy at the time and could not be king. A powerful earl, Harold Godwinson, claimed the throne, despite having no royal ties. And a Viking lord believed he had a claim, as did William of Normandy, Edward's cousin. The stage was set for a succession battle.
Photo: Edward the Confessor, englishmonarchs.co.uk
On September 27, 1066, William of Normandy set sail for England. All interested parties were preparing for a battle.
By the time William arrived in England, Harold had defeated the Viking lord as well as his own brother. The question of succession would be decided on October 14 in the Battle of Hastings.
The battle was fought between infantrymen on the English side and cavalry and archers on the Norman side. Despite the clear advantage, the Normans were not victorious until the end of the day. The battle ended with the death of Harold. His death allowed William the Conquerer to be crowned king of England on Christmas Day.
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