Before Norman Battle

Before the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, the country faced a serious struggle for the throne. After the death of King Edward the Confessor, Harold Godwinson became King of England. However, William, Duke of Normandy, claimed that Edward had promised him the crown. At the same time, the Norwegian king Harald Hardrada invaded northern England. Harold defeated the Norwegian army at the Battle of Stamford Bridge. Soon afterwards, William landed in southern England with his Norman forces. Harold quickly marched south to meet him. Both armies prepared for the decisive Battle of Hastings on 14 October 1066.