King Harold II
Harold Godwinson, commonly known as King Harold II, was the last crowned Anglo-Saxon king of England. He ruled from 6 January 1066 until his death at the Battle of Hastings later that year on 14 October 1066. Here are some key facts about his life and reign:
- Birth: Harold was born around 1022, the son of Godwin, Earl of Wessex, one of the most powerful nobles in England at the time.
- Family: He was the brother of Edith of Wessex, who was married to Edward the Confessor, the previous king of England.
- Rise to Power: Harold became Earl of East Anglia in 1045 and later inherited the title of Earl of Wessex after his father's death in 1053. His influence and wealth grew, making him one of the most powerful men in England.
- Claim to the Throne: Upon Edward the Confessor's death in January 1066, Harold was chosen by the Witan (the council of wise men) to succeed him. However, his claim was immediately contested by William, Duke of Normandy, and Harald Hardrada, King of Norway.
- Norman Conquest: Harold faced challenges from both claimants:
- Battle of Stamford Bridge: In September 1066, Harold defeated Harald Hardrada at the Battle of Stamford Bridge.
- Battle of Hastings: Immediately after, Harold marched south to meet William, where he was defeated and killed at the Battle of Hastings. This battle marked the beginning of the Norman Conquest of England.
- Death: Harold was killed in battle, though the exact manner of his death remains uncertain. Some accounts suggest he was shot in the eye with an arrow, while others claim he was hacked to death by Norman knights.
- Legacy: His death marked the end of Anglo-Saxon rule in England, leading to significant changes in the country's language, culture, and governance under Norman rule.
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