Battle Of Hastings - the battle itself Flashcards
Whose army was best organised?
William’s. He had archers at the front, then foot soldiers, then knights on horseback.
Who had the biggest army?
Harold. His army was much bigger than William’s.
Where did Harold position his soldiers?
On top of a hill.
What happened when the Normans attacked the English?
The English pushed them back down the hill because there were more English soldiers.
What did William tell his soldiers to pretend to do?
He told them to pretend to run away so that the English would run after them and come down the hill.
When did William’s army attack?
Before the English soldiers were ready.
How did the Normans break down the English wall of shields?
By the archers firing arrows up in the air so they came down over the shields.
What happened when the English came down the hill after the Normans (who the English thought were running away)?
The Norman knights on horseback turned round and charged at the English. Many English were killed, and many ran away (deserted). At some point, Harold was killed, and the English gave up.
How long did the Battle of Hastings last?
It started early in the morning and lasted all day.
Who won the Battle Of Hastings?
William, Duke of Normandy
What were the main reasons Harold Godwinson lost the Battle of Hastings?
1 Tired army - having had a battle with Harald Hardraada a few days before, and then marching back south to fight William.
2 Harold had no horses, and very few archers, giving him less ways to fight William.
3 His soldiers chased the Normans down the hill, giving up their strong hill position, and making it easier for the Normans to charge on horseback.
4 Harold’s death caused the remaining English to give up.
