1066 is one of the turning points not only in English history, but in the history of Europe and the world.
1066 is one of the pivotal years in English and Western history. It completely changed the face of England, as well as the relationship of England and France for centuries to come.
Major Figures of 1066
Edward the Confessor. King of England since 1042, 1066 would be Edward’s last year. He was married to Editha Godwineson, daughter of the most powerful noble in England. He had no heirs of his own, however.
Harold Godwineson. Brother-in-law of Edward the Confessor, he sought to take the throne after the death of Edward. His family was the most powerful in England, and most of England stood behind him as King.
Tostig Godwineson. Harold’s brother, jealous of Harold and rebellious.
Duke William of Normandy. Cousin of Edward the Confessor through marriage: Edward’s Mother and his grandmother were sisters. According to him, several years prior to 1066 Edward had named him heir to the English throne.
Harald Hardrada. King of Norway.
Edward the Confessor
Most of Edward the Confessor’s life had been spent in exile. When he was ten, Sven Forkbeard of Denmark conquered England and became King. Edward escaped into Norway, where he would live until he was 42 years old.
The Danes remained in control of England for 32 years, most famously under King Canute, also known as Canute the Great. After the death of Canute’s son Hardicanute, however, Edward the Confessor finally made his return to England and accepted the crown.
Edward the Confessor was a very religious man. In fact, more of his energies were spent on matters of religion and his own spirituality than on actually running the country. However things were peaceful in his time, and he was a popular king. His most lasting achievement was the building of Westminster Abbey.
When 1066 began, Edward was dying. He died on January 4th, without an heir. England would have to decide on a new king.