The Battle Of Hastings: Background Info Flashcards
How did William use the pope with regards to invading England ?
He used propaganda saying Harold had broken a holy path
He managed to secure the backing of pope Alexander meaning it was now a Holy Crusade and those taking part where crusaders- men where encouraged for religious reasons
How did William prepare for invasion and how does this show good leadership ?
- Spring+ summer of 1066 William has ships built to carry warhorses and men
- Assembled a large army for around France
- Kept his horses and men well fed for 2 months before heading off
- feeding the 2,000 horses required 13 tonnes of Hay and 13 Tonnes of grain every day
Why was Williams invasion of England delayed ?
Held up due to heavy winds and a storm blowing against the ships so they couldn’t leave the ports and many took shelter in St Valery
What happened when William finally set off ? Extra: how did William subjectively show good leadership here
- Some of Williams men’s drowned
This was because a storm damaged some of the ships - William hid the bodies and hurried them in secret as to not damage morale
When did William set sail and what challenge did he face when he reached England ?
- Late September in 1066, 26 September
- Some ships got lost and landed in Romney
- English troops attack and killed almost all of the crews who got lost
Why did William have a small advantage when landing in England ?
Harold was up north dealing with the threat of Tostig and Harold Hardrada
What did William order his men to do when he reached England ? Extra: what did his men do
- Build a motte and Bailey castle
- They did that then pillaged and plundered the local area
- They hoped this would get Harold’s attention and provoke an early battle
How did Harold react to the news of the Norman invasion ?
He quickly rode south and paused in London to rest his men+ gather more troops then marched down to the invaders
What did historians think Harold tried to do ? Was this successful ?
- Many believe Harold tried to make a swift march down hoping to take William by surprise+ hoped it could show people he was a good king
- It didn’t work- the most likely reason is Norman scouts spotted the English army
When was the actual battle of Hastings ?
14 October 1066
