Feedback
What do you think about us?
Your name
Your email
Message
Harold Godwinson, the last Anglo-Saxon king of England, is best known for his reign in 1066, marked by the Battle of Stamford Bridge and his death at the Battle of Hastings. His defeat by William the Conqueror led to the Norman Conquest, profoundly influencing European history, culture, and language. Harold's legacy is reflected in modern Europe's architecture, governance, and the English language.
Show More
Harold established himself as a formidable military leader and shrewd politician in this role
Witenagemot
Harold was elected king by this assembly of the kingdom's leading notables
Harold's forces achieved a decisive victory over the invading Norwegian king, effectively ending the threat of Viking invasions
This cataclysmic event concluded Harold's reign and the Anglo-Saxon era in England
William the Conqueror
William became king and initiated significant changes in English society and governance
Feudalism
The Norman Conquest brought about the establishment of this social and political system in England
Language and Culture
The blending of Norman French with Old English enriched the English language and influenced European architecture, language, and art for centuries to come
The Norman Conquest had far-reaching effects on European medieval history, including the dissemination of Norman culture and the evolution of military architecture and tactics
Architecture
The enduring influence of Norman architecture is one of the most notable legacies of this period
Language
The significant contribution of Norman French to the English language is another enduring legacy of the Norman Conquest
Historical Sites
Battle Abbey and the city of Winchester serve as reminders of Harold's era in the region of Wessex
Bayeux Tapestry
This pictorial record of the events leading to the Norman Conquest offers insight into Harold's reign and its significant aftermath