Anglo Saxons - Battle of Hastings Flashcards
What were the PROs and CONs of the NORMANS before the Battle of Hastings began?
PRO- Papal Banner (pope support)
William on Horseback (show Normans he was alive)
7,000 men 2,000 cavalry
700 Ships
Archers
Trained Horses called “Destriers” who could kick and bite.
CON - Bottom of Caldbec hill, in Marshland
What were the PROs and CONs of the ANGLO- SAXONS before the Battle of Hastings began?
PRO - Home ground, Housecarls experienced, Top of The hill
CON - Many General Fyrd (inexperienced), Tired from Stamford Bridge, Lack of Archers, Harold on Foot,
Not all soldiers had arrived
Which order did William attack?
- Archers to fire at shield wall
- Infantry to attack
- Cavalry to attack
These were all failiures due to being downhill.
How did William use FEIGNED RETREATS?
Some of Wililam’s men (Bretons) retreated. Anglo-Saxons broke shield wall and chased after them. Normans then chased back up the hill to circle and kill them by cavalry.
Him being on horseback allowed him to make orderes quickly and move across the battlefield.
How did William finish off his opposition?
He ordered his archers to “aim upwards”.
How is it believed that Harold was killed?
- Based on the Bayeux Tapestry, Harold got an arrow in his eye. However, this has no evidence.
- William sent some of his men to finish him off and bring him back to him. The chopped his body up so much it was barely noticible. His wife, Edith, could only recognise him from a birthmark.
What happened after the Battle of Hastings?
Earls submitted to William in Berkhamstead later in 1066 to show loyalty.
William was crowned king on 25th December 1066.
How was luck on William’s side?
The winds changed perfectly whilst Harold’s army was busy at the battle of stamford bridge.
When did William arrive at Pevensey?
28th October 1066.
It is said that he fell over when he first landed on English soil but saved it by saying it was lucky.
