Norwegian Invasion of England

Magnus I makes a deal with Harthacut

Jan 5, 1042

Mangus I ruled Norway with Hardrada. Harthacut was the Danish ruler of England. Because neither country had an heir to the throne, they promised each other the kingdom in the event of their death.

Edward the Confessor

Jun 8, 1042

After the death of Cnut, the Norwegian King, Edward was able to unify England and crown himself the King of England.

Macbeth

Period: Dec 19, 1042 to Dec 19, 1066

Similar to how the Norwegians invaded England but were held off, they invaded Scotland during the rule of Duncan I. Macbeth, along with Banquo, another general in Duncan’s army were able to hold of the Norwegians and keep Scotland free of their terror.
Another place we see a connection between Macbeth and the Norwegian invasion is when Macbeth claims the throne held by Duncan. Just like Harald and William, Macbeth claims he has a right to the throne and takes it from Duncan after murdering him.

Harold is shipwrecked in Ponthieu

Oct 19, 1064

Harold's ship was blown off course and he landed off the coast of Ponthieu. There he was captured by Count Guy I and taken hostage. He remained there until Duke William of Normandy took Harold from Count Guy I.

Harold pledges his allegiance to William

Dec 26, 1064

Being rescued, Harold swore on sacred relics to support William's claim to the throne of England. Harold was later knighted by William and fought with him against Conan II, Duke of Brittany.

Edward's Death and his successor

Jan 5, 1066

Although highly debated, it is believed that Edward the Confessor had originally promised his throne to William of Normandy, the rightful heir to the throne. However, Harold Godwinson claims Edward changed his mind and promised the throne to him on his deathbed.

Tostig Godwinson

Feb 18, 1066

Tostig was Harold's exiled brother. Tostig raided different parts of England, but was quickly driven back. He retreated to prepare recruiting new troops.

Harald Hardrada and Tostig

Sep 13, 1066

At the same time, Harald Hardrada, the King of Norway claimed his right to the throne. He said that the deal Magnus made with Harthacut gave the throne to him, since Magnus had already passed away. At this point, William had also claimed the throne and urged Harald to invade England. Tostig has also joined forces with Harald against his brother Harold.

Battle of Fulford

Sep 20, 1066

King Harald began his invasion on the north shore of England, sailing in with over 300 ships. He advanced on York and defeated the English army, taking control of the city.

Harold marches north

Sep 21, 1066

Harold receives news of the invasion from the north and left immediately, gathering forces along the way.

Battle of Stamford Bridge

Sep 25, 1066

Harold was able to reach Harald in a short amount of time and surprise attack him at the Stamford Bridge. Harold quickly decimated the Viking army. Both Harald and Tostig died in the battle and nearly all of the Viking army was killed, thus bringing the Viking Age to an end.

William of Normandy

Sep 27, 1066

After defeating Harald, Harold and his army celebrated the victory at Stamford Bridge. The celebration did not last however, as Harold received word of William of Normandy landing on the south shore.

Battle of Hastings

Oct 14, 1066

The Battle of Hastings ensues as William attacks Harold's exhausted army. William's cavalry eventually broke through Harold's defenses, killing Harold in the onslaught. After that Harold's leaderless army was easily defeated by William's army, allowing him to take the throne.