What factors led to the Norman Conquest?aetsryjw

3 answers

1. Claim to the throne: After the death of King Edward the Confessor in 1066, there were multiple claimants to the English throne, including Harold Godwinson, William, Duke of Normandy, and Harald Hardrada of Norway. William claimed that Edward had promised him the throne, leading to a dispute over who had the rightful claim.

2. Battle of Hastings: The decisive battle of the Norman Conquest was the Battle of Hastings in 1066, where William's forces defeated Harold Godwinson's Anglo-Saxon army. This battle proved to be a turning point in the conquest, as William was able to establish himself as the new king of England.

3. Military strength: William of Normandy had a powerful army, including mounted knights and archers, which gave him a significant advantage over his adversaries. This military strength enabled him to conquer England and assert his control over the kingdom.

4. Political alliances: William of Normandy also had political alliances with other European powers, such as the King of France, which provided him with additional support in his conquest of England.

5. Feudal system: The Norman Conquest also brought about significant changes to the feudal system in England, as William redistributed land among his loyal supporters and established a new system of governance based on feudal obligations and loyalty.

Overall, a combination of military strength, political alliances, and strategic planning were the key factors that led to the success of the Norman Conquest.
can sum it up in 5 sentences
The Norman Conquest was led by William, Duke of Normandy, who claimed the English throne after the death of King Edward the Confessor. The decisive Battle of Hastings in 1066 solidified William's control over England, allowing him to establish himself as the new king. William's military strength, political alliances, and strategic planning were crucial factors in his successful conquest. The Norman Conquest resulted in significant changes to the feudal system in England, with land redistribution and the establishment of a new system of governance. Overall, William's claim to the throne, military prowess, and alliances were the key factors that led to the Norman Conquest.