In 911, the Carolingian ruler Charles the Simple allowed a group of Vikings to settle in Normandy under their leader Rollo. Their settlement proved successful, and they quickly adapted … See more

William assembled a large invasion fleet and an army gathered from Normandy and the rest of France, including large contingents from Brittany and Flanders. He spent almost nine … See more

After defeating his brother Tostig and Harald Hardrada in the north, Harold left much of his forces in the north, including Morcar and Edwin, … See more

The day after the battle, Harold's body was identified, either by his armour or by marks on his body. His personal standard was presented to William, … See more

The English army was organised along regional lines, with the fyrd, or local levy, serving under a local magnate – whether an earl, bishop, or sheriff. The fyrd was composed of men who owned their own land, and were equipped by their community to fulfil … See more

Background and location
Because many of the primary accounts contradict each other at times, it is impossible to provide … See more

• Ermenfrid Penitential See more