Battles

• What region is Normandy located in?

  Northern France
• Who controlled Normandy by the end of 1066?

  William of Normandy, also known as William the Conqueror
• How did the Normans evolve culturally over time?

  They became more French and adopted the French language and culture
• What was the political status of Normandy in relation to France?

  It was an independent fiefdom but technically part of France
• What system governed the land distribution in Normandy?

  The feudal system
• How did the feudal system in Normandy differ from that in England?

  It had less central control from the king
• What was the role of dukes in the feudal system of Normandy?

  Dukes promised the king an army in exchange for land
• What was a significant feature of the Norman army?

  They had private armies that could be quickly gathered
• What type of armor did the Normans use?

  Chain mail
• What was the most frightening aspect of the Norman army?

  Their ability to fight on horseback
• What invention gave the Normans an advantage in cavalry warfare?

  The stirrup
• How did the Norman knights protect their lands?

  By building castles
• What was the common form of castle built by the Normans?

  The motte-and-bailey castle
• What was the religious affiliation of the Normans?

  They were devout Christians
• How did Norman Christianity differ from that of the English?

  It conformed more closely to European ideas and the Pope's authority
• Who was the leader of Normandy in 1065?

  William, Duke of Normandy
• What were the key features of Normandy in 1065 that prepared them for the invasion of England in 1066?

  • Strong military organization with private armies
  • Advanced technology for the time (chain mail, stirrups)
  • Effective feudal system with quick mobilization of forces
  • Established castles for defense
  • Strong alliances and political strategies
  • Devout Christianity aligned with European norms
• What were the strengths of the Norman army that enabled them to invade England with ease?

  • Professional soldiers with advanced weaponry
  • Mastery of cavalry tactics due to stirrups
  • Ability to build defensive structures quickly
  • Strong leadership under William
  • Effective use of alliances and political maneuvering
• What is the focus of the second unit in the Norman Conquest videos?

  The battles of Fulford and Stamford Bridge
• When did Edward the Confessor die?

  In January 1066
• Why was Tostig Godwinson angry with Harold?

  He lost his position as an earl in 1065
• What actions did Tostig take after losing his position?

  He began attacking the east coast of England
• What happened to Tostig in April 1066?

  He mysteriously disappeared
• What preparations were made by William in Normandy in June 1066?

  He prepared for the invasion of England
• What did Harold do while waiting for the Norman invasion?

  He collected taxes and gathered the Anglo-Saxon army
• Why did Harold disband his army in September 1066?

  Because the Norman invasion did not happen
• When did Tostig and Harald Hardrada land in England?

  On the 8th of September 1066
• What was Harald Hardrada's claim to the throne of England?

  Through Harthacnut
• What did Harold Godwinson do after learning of the Viking invasion?

  He quickly gathered his army and marched north
• Where did the battle of Fulford take place?

  Outside York
• What was the outcome of the battle of Fulford?

  The Vikings defeated Edwin and Morkar
• How long did the Vikings stay in York after their victory?

  For the next five days
• What significant action did Harold Godwinson take after the battle of Fulford?

  He marched to Stamford Bridge for a surprise attack
• What was the state of the Viking forces at the battle of Stamford Bridge?

  They were caught unawares and unprepared
• Who died in the battle of Stamford Bridge?

  Both Harald Hardrada and Tostig Godwinson
• What happened to the remaining Norwegian forces after the battle of Stamford Bridge?

  They fled back to Norway
• What was the situation in Normandy after the battle of Stamford Bridge?

  The Norman forces were ready to invade England
• What events led to the battles of Fulford and Stamford Bridge?

  1. Edward the Confessor dies in January 1066.
  2. Harold Godwinson becomes king.
  3. Tostig Godwinson attacks the east coast.
  4. Harald Hardrada claims the throne and invades with Tostig.
  5. Battles occur in September 1066.
• What were the battles that preceded the Battle of Hastings?

  The battles of Fulford and Stamford Bridge
• Why is the Battle of Hastings considered more famous than the battles of Fulford and Stamford Bridge?

  It was a decisive battle that changed the course of English history