1066 - The Battle of Hastings
Anita Dalton
Founder, Editorial & Financial Director of Educational Musicals Ltd part of The History Portal.
The Battle of Hastings in 1066 is probably the most famous event in English history. The battle changed the course of English history forever and signified the end of Saxon domination of England, and the start of the Norman era.
In 1066 King Edward died and King Harold was crowned as king. The problem was that Harold had promised William, Duke of Normandy, also known as William the Conqueror, the throne. Then there was the Viking, King Hadrada, who, with Harold’s brother Tostig, also felt he had a claim to the throne. Unfortunately for Harold they both invaded at the same time, so in a matter of days he had to fight two decisive battles that changed our history for ever.