Edward the Confessor's Final Year Flashcards
(36 cards)
Who was Godwin?
An important figure in Anglo-Saxon England who became Earl of Wessex and established the House of Godwin
Godwin was favoured by King Cnut and gained power through military expeditions.
What title did Harold Godwinson hold?
Earl of Wessex
Harold inherited the earldom after Godwin’s death in 1053.
What was the significance of the House of Godwin?
An important aristocratic family that held significant power in Anglo-Saxon England
They controlled vast land and resources, which contributed to their influence.
What did the Godwins control by the 1060s?
Key areas across England, including Wessex, Northumbria, and East Anglia
This control allowed them to exert significant political influence.
Why was the House of Godwin powerful?
They owned a vast amount of land, which provided wealth and influence
Their landholdings allowed them to raise a large fyrd and hold key areas.
Who were the main rivals of the Godwins?
Aelfgar, the Earl of Mercia, and Gruffudd ap Llywelyn, the King of Wales
These rivals posed significant threats to the Godwins’ power.
What event led to Tostig Godwinson’s appointment as Earl of Northumbria?
The death of the Earl of Northumbria, Siward, in 1055
Tostig was appointed by Edward the Confessor after Siward’s death.
What were the causes of the uprising against Tostig in 1065?
- Edward chose a southerner as Earl
- Increased taxes
- Accusations of false crimes
- Friendship with Malcolm III
These factors contributed to the discontent among Northumbrians.
Fill in the blank: The House of Godwin established _______ as the richest earldom in England.
Wessex
True or False: Harold Godwinson was the only child of Godwin.
False
Harold was one of several children in the Godwin family.
Why did Edward the Confessor’s connection to Normandy affect the Godwins?
Edward appointed Norman aristocrats to key positions, causing dissatisfaction among English earls
This led to Godwin’s defiance and eventual exile.
What was the purpose of Harold’s embassy to Normandy?
To recover hostages and discuss the English succession
The embassy was controversial and contributed to Harold’s reputation.
What was the outcome of the uprising against Tostig Godwinson?
Tostig was ultimately ousted from power in Northumbria
The uprising reflected the discontent with his rule and the influence of Southern authority.
What did Godwin’s daughter Edith’s marriage to Edward the Confessor signify?
A connection between the Godwins and the royal family
This alliance strengthened the Godwins’ political position.
What was a key factor in the Godwins’ rise to power?
Their substantial landholdings and wealth
This allowed them to maintain a large fyrd and exert political influence.
Fill in the blank: The Godwins’ actions contributed to the _______ crisis after Edward the Confessor’s death.
succession
What was a major complaint of the Northumbrians against Tostig?
High taxes
Northumbria was in the Danelaw, leading to resentment over higher taxes.
Who did Tostig have a friendship with?
Malcolm III, King of Scotland
What action did Tostig take instead of seeking revenge after Malcolm raided Northumbria in 1061?
Agreed to peace terms
What serious offense did Tostig commit in 1064?
Murdered two of Gospatric’s followers
Why was Tostig’s murder of Gospatric’s followers significant?
Killing people under hospitality was a serious offense
What was Gospatric’s status in Northumbria?
An important Northumbrian aristocrat
What triggered the uprising against Tostig?
The assassination of Gospatric
When did the Northumbrian uprising against Tostig begin?
October 1065
