What factors led to the Norman Conquest?

(4 points)

1. The death of Edward the Confessor without a clear heir: When Edward the Confessor died in 1066, his death sparked a succession crisis as there was no clear heir to the throne. This led to multiple claimants vying for the English crown, including Harold Godwinson and William the Conqueror.

2. The Battle of Hastings: The Norman Conquest was ultimately decided by the Battle of Hastings in 1066, where William the Conqueror defeated Harold Godwinson. This battle solidified William's claim to the English throne and marked the beginning of Norman rule in England.

3. William the Conqueror's claim to the throne: William the Conqueror, also known as William the , claimed that Edward the Confessor had promised him the English throne. This, coupled with his victory at the Battle of Hastings, gave him a strong claim to the throne and helped to legitimize his rule.

4. Military and strategic advantages of the Normans: The Normans were skilled warriors with superior military tactics and equipment compared to the Anglo-Saxons. Their use of cavalry and archers, as well as their strategically built castles, gave them an advantage in battle and helped them secure their conquest of England.

shorter

1. Succession crisis after the death of Edward the Confessor

2. Battle of Hastings in 1066
3. William the Conqueror's claim to the throne
4. Military and strategic advantages of the Normans

make it simple

1. Edward the Confessor died without a clear successor.

2. William the Conqueror defeated Harold Godwinson at the Battle of Hastings in 1066.
3. William claimed Edward had promised him the throne.
4. The Normans had better military strategies and equipment.

thats not simple

1. Edward died without a clear successor.

2. William defeated Harold at Hastings in 1066.
3. William said Edward promised him the throne.
4. Normans were better fighters.