Norman Conquest Encyclopedia

The succession to the throne of England had not, in 1066, settled down to the uncomplicated scheme of primogeniture, the succession of the eldest son or, failing sons, daughter. Indeed, the kingdom of England as such was only fifty years old, dating from 30 November 1016 when Edmund Ironside died and King Cnut or Canute came to the throne. The confirmation of succession was made by the witan, a council of the most prominent leaders of church and state. Edward the Confessor died childless and, in spite of his having bestowed the succession on the descendant of Ethelred, William the Bastard, Duke of Normandy in 1051, was alleged to have changed his mind in favour of Harold Godwinsson, a decision supported by Stigand, archbishop of Canterbury, and the witan. At the same time Harald Hardrada, King of Norway, laid claim to the throne as successor to Hardicanute or Harthacnut, son of Cnut. The issue was further confused by various claims that oaths had been sworn to support William. The outcome was to decide which of three traditions and cultures would mould the future of England.

See also: Edward the Confessor; Ethelred; Harald Hardrada; Harold Godwinsson; King Cnut; William the Bastard; witan

Related Reading:

• Hastings 1066 (Revised Edition)- The Fall of Saxon England
  (Campaign 13 )