The Norman Invasion EQ:What events contributed to the development of European Feudalism?
Setting Year: 1065-1066 Locations: The Kingdom of England, Normandy (France,) and the Kingdom of Norway Important Figures: …
Elective Monarchy The next king is chosen by all the vassals of the current king The current king gets a vote, which would most likely be for his oldest son Other vassals usually respected the wishes of the king
King Edward the Confessor Ruled England since 1042 Before becoming king, exile in Normandy (25 years) Kept close ties with Normandy throughout his reign Had no children
Three men will fight for the throne of England Duke William of Normandy Earl Harold Godwinsson, Noble of England Harald Hadrada King of Norway “Viking”
Duke William of Normandy Powerful Duke in Northern France King Edward promised William that he would be the next King of England He and Edward are cousins
Harold Godwinson Wealthiest & most powerful noble in England Brother-in-Law and “right-hand man” of King Edward Fought alongside Duke William in France, declared a knight by William and promised to support William’s claim for the English throne
King Harald Hardrada Viking King of Norway One of the most feared warriors in all of Europe Spent 15 years in exile in Russia & Byzantine Empire Vikings previously Kings of England and Norway had promised each other that if died without an heir, the other country’s king would also become king of that country
Question #1 Who do you think should be the next King of England? Why?
Significance This joining of England and France spread Feudalism from France to England and the rest of Europe.