In 3-4 What factors led to the Norman Conquest?
1. Succession crisis: The death of King Edward the Confessor in 1066 without a clear heir led to a power struggle between several claimants to the English throne, including Harold Godwinson, Harald Hardrada, and William of Normandy.
2. William of Normandy's claim: William, also known as William the Conqueror, believed he had a legitimate claim to the English throne as Edward the Confessor had promised it to him. When Harold Godwinson was crowned king instead, William invaded England to assert his claim.
3. Battle of Hastings: The decisive Battle of Hastings in 1066, in which William's Norman forces defeated Harold Godwinson's Anglo-Saxon army, solidified William's claim to the English throne.
4. Norman military prowess: The Normans were skilled warriors and were able to successfully invade and conquer England due to their superior military tactics and equipment, such as cavalry and archers. Their victory at the Battle of Hastings was a key factor in establishing Norman rule over England.