Hereward the Wake Flashcards
According to the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, what was the greatest threat to William?
When the Danish King Sweiyn sent an army to conquer England in spring 1070
Where did the Danes land?
The North to support Edgar (paid to leave)
East Anglia to support the rebellion led by Hereward the Wake
Who was Hereward’s father believed to be?
Leofric, Earl of Mercia
Why was Hereward angry?
William had confiscated land from his father and killed his brother
Who supported Hereward?
King Swegn of Denmark and Morcar (Edwin has been killed)
What did Hereward begin a campaign of?
Guerrilla-style tactics on Norman settlers in the marshes and fenlands of East Anglia
What did their knowledge of the land allow Hereward’s supporters to do?
Avoid capture
Fight in small groups and hid to take the enemy by surprise
Who was Hereward?
An English thegn
Why did Hereward become involved in disputes with Norman barons?
They were given land in Lincolnshire
What was their most famous attack?
The looting and burning of Peterborough Abbey in 1070
Where were the rebels based?
The abbey on the Isle of Ely which was well defended and surrounded by marshland
When did William turn his attention to Morcar and Hereward?
After paying King Swegn to leave
What did William do as he attack directly?
Besieged the Isle of Ely
How many attempts did William make to cross the marshland?
3
What was attempt 1?
3km wooden causeway to cross the marshland
Strong and impressive structure
