Anglo-Saxon England 1035-1066 Flashcards
(40 cards)
What was the key issue following King Cnut’s death in 1035?
There was no clear successor. His sons Harold Harefoot and Harthacnut both had claims, leading to a split between Danish and English nobility.
What role did Emma of Normandy play in the 1035 succession crisis?
She supported her son Harthacnut’s claim, opposed Harold Harefoot, and briefly held Wessex as regent.
Why did Harthacnut delay coming to England in 1035?
He was securing his throne in Denmark after Cnut’s death and faced threats from Norway and internal rebellion.
How did Harold Harefoot become king?
With support from the Godwin family and northern nobles, he became regent and then declared king in 1037.
What happened to Alfred Aetheling in 1036 and why was it significant?
He was captured, blinded, and died after returning from Normandy. Likely orchestrated by Harold or Godwin; damaged Edward’s trust in the Godwins.
What were Harold Harefoot’s main achievements and problems?
He secured the throne quickly but lacked legitimacy and ruled harshly. Faced opposition from Emma and supporters of Harthacnut.
What was the significance of Harthacnut’s taxation policy?
He imposed a fleet tax to fund his navy, which caused widespread unrest, especially in Worcester.
What does Harthacnut’s execution of Worcester citizens show?
His brutality and the instability of royal authority. It contributed to his unpopularity.
Why was Edward’s succession in 1042 mostly peaceful?
Harthacnut died unexpectedly. Edward had royal blood and was backed by Godwin, helping him secure the throne smoothly.
How did Edward reward supporters after his coronation?
Promoted Godwin’s sons, especially Harold and Leofwine, to powerful earldoms. Cemented Godwin family dominance.
What was the significance of Edward’s religious image?
It boosted his reputation (canonised later) but also meant he was seen as passive and not assertive.
What was the role of Robert of Jumièges during Edward’s reign?
A Norman cleric made Archbishop of Canterbury in 1051. His appointment sparked conflict with the Godwins.
What areas did the Godwins control by the 1050s?
Wessex (Harold), East Anglia (Gyrth), Northumbria (Tostig), and later Kent and other southern areas—dominating the south.
What caused the 1051 Dover Fracas?
Eustace of Boulogne’s men clashed with locals in Dover. Edward demanded punishment, but Godwin refused, leading to his exile.
Why was the Dover Fracas important?
It showed Edward trying to assert royal power over Godwin and led to Godwin’s brief exile in 1051.
What happened in 1052?
Godwin returned with military support, forced the king to reinstate him, and exiled Norman favourites.
What was Edward’s role in military affairs?
He rarely led campaigns himself, relying on earls like Harold to manage warfare and defence.
How was the Anglo-Saxon legal system maintained under Edward?
He continued using shire and hundred courts, the oath system, and royal writs to administer law.
What was the significance of the housecarls?
They were elite, full-time warriors who formed the king’s and earls’ professional military guard.
How did Edward use the Witan?
He consulted it regularly for legitimacy and decisions, including taxation, succession, and disputes.
Why was Edward’s relationship with Normandy controversial?
He gave land and titles to Normans and was rumoured to have promised William the throne.
How did Edward deal with threats from Wales?
Harold led successful campaigns in 1063, defeating Gruffudd ap Llywelyn and securing the border.
What did Edward’s handling of Northumbria show?
He allowed Harold to replace Tostig in 1065 after rebellion, showing pragmatism and Harold’s growing power.
What happened on 5 January 1066?
Edward the Confessor died. The Witan chose Harold Godwinson as king the next day.
