What factors led to the Norman Conquest?
(4 points)
4 short sentences
1. One of the key factors that led to the Norman Conquest was the death of Edward the Confessor, the last Anglo-Saxon king of England, in 1066. With no clear successor, this opened the door for rival claimants to the throne.
2. Another factor was the ambitious and determined nature of William, Duke of Normandy, who saw an opportunity to seize the English crown for himself. He gathered a strong army and set sail for England, claiming that Edward had promised him the throne.
3. The Battle of Hastings in 1066 was a decisive factor in the Norman Conquest. It was here that William's army defeated the English forces led by Harold II, resulting in William's coronation as king of England.
4. The role of luck and chance also played a part, as unforeseen events and circumstances often shape the outcomes of historical events. One such unexpected event was Harold II having to defend against a Viking invasion in the north, leaving him weakened and vulnerable to William's invasion from the south.
shorter
1. Edward the Confessor's death created a power vacuum.
2. William of Normandy sought to claim the English crown.
3. The Battle of Hastings secured William's victory.
4. Harold II's weakened position due to a Viking invasion added to the Norman's advantage.