The Rise of Harold Godwinson and the Norman Conquest

Harold Godwinson's ascent to power marked the culmination of the Godwin family's influence in Anglo-Saxon England. After his father's death in 1056, Harold became Earl of Wessex and was so powerful that he was unofficially referred to as "sub-regulus" or deputy king.

Definition: Sub-regulus - An informal title meaning "deputy king," indicating Harold's immense influence before becoming king.

The Witan, an advisory council composed of powerful earls, archbishops, and bishops, played a crucial role in selecting the next king. When Edward the Confessor died childless, the Witan chose Harold Godwinson as the new king, despite competing claims to the throne.

Highlight: The Witan's power to choose the next king, especially in the absence of a clear heir, was a significant aspect of Anglo-Saxon governance.

Harold's reign was immediately challenged by two formidable opponents:

1. Harald Hardrada of Norway, who invaded England with the support of Harold's brother Tostig.
2. William, Duke of Normandy, who claimed the throne based on an alleged promise from Edward the Confessor.

The year 1066 saw rapid and dramatic changes in England's rulership. Harold Godwinson defeated Harald Hardrada at the Battle of Stamford Bridge but was then defeated by William of Normandy at the Battle of Hastings.

Quote: "Who won the Battle of Hastings? William the Conqueror's victory at Hastings marked the end of Anglo-Saxon rule and the beginning of Norman control over England."

William the Conqueror, who had been Duke of Normandy since childhood, felt entitled to the English throne due to his previous support of Edward the Confessor. His victory at Hastings fundamentally altered the course of English history, introducing Norman rule and profoundly impacting England's culture, language, and governance.

Highlight: The Battle of Hastings in 1066 is one of the most famous and consequential events in English history, marking the transition from Anglo-Saxon to Norman rule.

Edward the Confessor and the Powerful Earls

Edward the Confessor, who reigned from 1042 to 1066, played a crucial role in shaping the political landscape of late Anglo-Saxon England. Despite being king, Edward's power was balanced by influential earls, particularly Earl Godwin of Wessex.

Highlight: Edward the Confessor likely spoke French better than English, reflecting his upbringing in Normandy.

Earl Godwin of Wessex emerged as the most powerful Anglo-Saxon earl due to his control over the wealthiest earldom. His influence extended to the royal family through his daughter Edith's marriage to King Edward. However, tensions existed between Edward and Godwin, stemming from Godwin's alleged involvement in the murder of Edward's brother, Alfred.

Vocabulary: Earldom - The territory or jurisdiction under an earl's control.

The Godwin family's power continued through Earl Godwin's children. Tostig Godwinson became Earl of Northumbria but faced rebellion due to his unpopularity. His brother, Harold Godwinson, would later become the most influential earl and eventually king.

Example: The complex relationships within the nobility are exemplified by Tostig Godwinson's fall from power and his subsequent alliance with Harald Hardrada to invade England in 1066.

Other significant nobles included Edwin and Morcar, brothers who controlled two-thirds of the major earldoms by 1066. Their sister Edith's marriage to Harold Godwinson further intertwined the powerful families of Anglo-Saxon England.