Clash of Kings: The Battle of Stamford Bridge Starter - In 1066 Harold and Harald both claimed they should be king. What were their claims? Challenge – Why did the Witan elect Harold?

Harold II, King of England Harald, King of Norway Harold II, King of England Was Edward’s brother-in-law Had been running the kingdom during Edward’s ill-health. Was a well respected warrior, politician and leader. Had support from the Witan Edward had promised him the throne on his deathbed. Was a direct descendent from King Cnut. After the death of Magnus, the throne should have passed to Hardrada’s father but instead it went to Edward. Had huge support in the Danelaw, as well as from Tostig

What happened? Fearing that Edwin and Morcar would fail, King Harold marched north. He had disbanded his army, so he gathered thousands of men during the march. It took them 7-8 days to march 185 miles. Hardrada and Tostig were not expecting to face King Harold to quickly, so there were at a disadvantage.

After Fulford, Tostig and Hardrada exchanged hostages with York. It was agreed that extra hostages would be handed over to them at Stamford Bridge. On 25th September, something unexpected happened – King Harold attacked!

Watch & Learn! Watch this clip from the 2017 BBC documentary on the Norman Conquest. Take notes on the key events of the battle, as you will need this information for the tasks later on. Challenge Whilst watching, think of the factors that helped Harold win!

Harold’s Army struggled to cross the bridge due to a large Viking warrior. He was taken out by a spear from beneath.

The Viking had arranged themselves in a shield wall for extra protection but this was eventually broken.

The two forces fought for hours, many Vikings felt misled – they expected the English to hate their new king.

Many Vikings fought without armour, it was very hot and they left it on their boats.

Eventually Hardrada was shot in the neck by an arrow Eventually Hardrada was shot in the neck by an arrow. Tostig was also killed during the attack.

Out of 300 ships, only 24 returned to Norway.

Learning Tasks All You have been given a storyboard on the Battle of Stamford Bridge. There are some missing pieces, either pictures or writing which you must fill in to complete the story. You should not spend anymore than 15 minutes on this, it’s a history lesson not art! Target 9-7 Explain how the victory at Stamford Bridge was a hollow victory for King Harold. Target 6-4 ‘Harold was able to win at Stamford Bridge due to his men’s willingness to defend their kingdom to the death’ – is this an accurate description? Target 3-1 Give three reasons that explain the outcome of Stamford Bridge.