Claimants to the throne Flashcards
What was the English custom for naming a successor?
The Kings last words were seen as being more important than any previous promises.
What was the Norman custom for naming a successor?
Any earlier promise was seen as being final, the Kings last words could not change this.
What was Edgar Aethelings claim to the throne?
He was Edward the Confessors Great Nephew and his father had been named as heir in 1056 before dying in 1057.
What made Edgar Aetheling unsuitable for the throne?
He was 14 and lacked money, soldiers or any military experience.
What was Harald Hardrada’s claim to the throne?
His father Magnus had an agreement with King Canute that he would be the next King of England, however Magnus was busy defending Norway and Edward was able to take the throne.
What made Harald Hardrada a suitable candidate for the throne?
He had been King of Norway for 20 years giving him experience. He was also and experienced military leader (commanding the Varangian Guard) and was ruthless.
What made Harald Hardrada an unsuitable candidate for the throne?
He had almost no support in England and was relying on the support of Harold Godwinsons brother Tostig to gain him support in Northern England.
What was Williams claim to the throne?
He supported Edward by giving him soldiers in 1051 to protect him from Earl Godwin, in exchange Edward promised to name him as his heir. Harold Godwinson also swore an oath when he would support William. He was also a distant cousin of Edward.
What made William a suitable candidate for the throne?
He was an experienced ruler and had a good reputation as a soldier.
What made William an unsuitable candidate for the throne?
He did not have the support of the Witan and was illegitimate which removed his biological link to Edward.
What was Harold Godwinsons claim to the throne?
He was Edwards brother in law, acted as sub-regulus (the Kings deputy) and was named as Edwards heir on his deathbed.
What made Harold Godwinson a suitable candidate for the throne?
He was rich and had vast military strength as well as the support of the Witan. He was also a skillful military leader and had previosly defeated the King of North Wales.
What made Harold Godwinson an unsuitable candidate for the throne?
He had previously sowrn an oath to support William’s claim to the throne.
Who became King of England?
Harold Godwinson was crowned on January 6th 1066.
