What factors led to the Norman Conquest
1. The death of Edward the Confessor: After the death of Edward the Confessor in 1066, there was a power vacuum that led to the struggle for the English crown. This led to the Normans finding an opportunity to invade England.
2. Succession crisis: Following the death of Edward the Confessor, there was no clear heir to the English throne. Both Harold Godwinson and William, Duke of Normandy, claimed the throne, which led to a war between the two.
3. William's claim to the throne: William, Duke of Normandy, believed that he had a rightful claim to the English throne. His claim was based on his distant relationship to Edward the Confessor, and a promise that Harold Godwinson had made to him earlier.
4. Harold's dispute with the Norwegian King: Before the Norman invasion, Harold Godwinson had to deal with a Norwegian invasion led by King Harald Hardrada. This conflict weakened Harold's army, making it easier for the Normans to conquer England.
5. Battle of Hastings: On October 14, 1066, the Battle of Hastings took place between the forces of Harold Godwinson and William, Duke of Normandy. This battle led to Harold's death and victory for William.
6. Norman's military expertise: The Normans were known for their military skills, which included the effective use of cavalry, archers, and infantry. This expertise helped them win the Battle of Hastings.
7. The English's divisions: The English were divided at the time of the invasion, which made it easier for the Normans to conquer England. The Anglo-Saxon nobility was also weakened by Viking attacks in the preceding centuries.
8. The role of language: With the Norman victory, Norman French became the language of the English court and administration for several centuries, changing the linguistic identity of England.