Hastings

• What does William have that legitimises his claim to the throne?

  Papal banner from the Pope
• Where does William land in January 1066?

  Sussex
• How many men and how many ships are in William's army?

  7,000 men and 700 ships
• Why did the Normans believe Harold had defied God?

  He allegedly swore an oath of support on holy relics to William, and had now taken the throne- betraying his oath.
• What did William promise to those who helped him overthrow Harold?

  Land in England
• What forced William to wait several weeks before invading England?

  Strong northern winds
• How did William provoke Harold?

  He devastated Harold's former Earldom, Wessex, waiting for Harold to come to him.
• When did the battle begin?

  9AM approximately
• What did the Saxons form as their defence?

  Strong shield wall with Harold at the centre
• What type of armour did both sides wear?

  Conical shaped helmets with a nasal and chainmail
• What weapon did the Saxons use?

  Dane axe
• What special type of soldier did the Normans have?

  Heavy cavalry and knights
• What other weapon did the Normans use?

  Crossbows - long line of archers that required less strength and training
• Why did the Norman archers prove ineffective at the start of the battle?

  The distance between the archers and Saxons was great, and their arrows mostly rebounded or flew above the Saxons heads.
• What was the issue with the Norman mounted knights?

  They found it difficult to charge up the steep hill.
• What rumour began to spread amongst Norman troops whilst they were being pushed back by the Saxons?

  That William was dead
• What did William do to disprove the rumour and inspire the Norman troops?

  Waved his helmet above his head and called out that he was alive and with God's help would win.
• What was the Norman feigned retreat tactic?

  Cavalry pretended to flee, making the Saxons break their shield wall to chase after them. The cavalry could then quickly swing round and charge the English pursuers.
• Who won the Battle of Hastings

  William the Conqueror