The Claimants to the English Throne

In this module, we will explore the different claimants to the English throne leading up to the Battle of Hastings in 1066. This pivotal event in English history marked the beginning of the Norman Conquest and had far-reaching consequences for the country.

Here is a list of people with a claim to the throne:

• Harold Godwinson: Harold was an English nobleman who claimed the throne after the death of Edward the Confessor. He was crowned as King of England in January 1066 but faced challenges from other contenders.

• Harald Hardrada: Harald was the King of Norway and also claimed the English throne. He invaded England in September 1066, hoping to seize power for himself.

• William, Duke of Normandy: William, also known as William the Conqueror, had a strong claim to the English throne. He believed that Edward the Confessor had promised him the crown, and he set out to assert his right through military force.

• Edgar the Ætheling: Edgar was a young Anglo-Saxon nobleman who was also considered a potential claimant to the English throne. However, his lack of military support made it difficult for him to assert his claim.

By understanding the motivations and actions of these claimants, we can gain insight into the complex political landscape of 11th-century England and the events that led to the Battle of Hastings.