Succession of the English Crown in the 11th Century
The succession of the English Crown in the 11th century was marked by power struggles and conflicting claims. William of Normandy, Harold Godwinson, and Edgar Atheling were key figures vying for the throne following King Edward's death. The relationships, promises, and support of nobles played crucial roles in determining who would ultimately become the King of England.
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Understanding Understanding the theEnglish EnglishSuccession Succession English Crown Excellent chance of being king A likely chance of being king No chance of being king 1
What helps decide What helps decide who whowill willbe beking? king? Being blood relative of the existing king or a previous king Being identified as his successor by the king Being accepted as king by the nobility and church hierarchy Having a great deal of powerful support 2
1051 1051 William of Normandy is said to have visited England recently where Edward promised him the crown. Godwin and his Sons the most powerful family in England until exiled after a dispute with Edward. Godwin fled to Flanders whilst his son Harold fled to Ireland. Edward the Exile Edward s nephew and nearest relative but living in Hungary! Edward s unborn son Edward could still have a son but he has been married to Edith for ten years and they have had no children. 3
1059 1059 William of Normandy is fighting wars against France and Anjou who have invaded Normandy. His priority is protecting his land. Harold Godwinson now Earl of Wessex after his father Godwin s death. He and his brothers are very powerful but there is no evidence that Edward sees Harold as his heir. Edgar Atheling is now King Edward s closest relative after the death of his father Edward the Exile. Edgar is only 7 years old but he is growing up at Edward s court and there are signs that Edward is considering him as his heir. 4
1065 1065 William of Normandy he has beaten his enemies and ended attacks on Normandy. William says that Harold has promised to support his claim to the throne of England. Harold Godwinson the most powerful Earl in England. His brothers are powerful too. Harold is a feared warrior as he had put down rebellions in Wales in 1062-3. Edgar Atheling there is no evidence to show that Edward now sees Edgar as his heir. Edgar is probably 13 with no military experience but many people expect William to invade England when Edward dies. 5
January 1066 January 1066 Harold Godwinson has been crowned King Harold after the death of King Edward. He says Edward gave him the crown on his deathbed and that he has the support of the English nobles and church. William of Normandy he says Edward promised him the crown and that Harold has broken his oath promising to support William s claim to be king. William can invade England as attacks on Normandy have ended. Edgar Atheling is not yet old enough to lead the army if England is invaded and was not supported by English nobles when Edward died. Harald Hardrada, King of Norway a successful soldier, he sees a chance to win more lands and wealth like past Danish kings of England. 6
Understanding the Succession Understanding the Succession in in1066 1066 A. There was long-running uncertainty about who would be Edward s successor B. The likelihood of each possible successor taking the crown changed over time C. There was a variety of reasons why individuals could claim the crown and there was no agreed set of rules about who should be king D. All the contenders had reason to believe they had the chance to be king, making conflict almost inevitable in 1066. 7
