Battle of Hastings

About

The Battle of Hastings occurred on October 14, 1066, marking a pivotal moment in English history as it led to the Norman Conquest of England. The battle was fought between the army of William, Duke of Normandy, and the English forces led by King Harold II. Following the death of King Edward the Confessor in January 1066, Harold was crowned king, but William claimed the throne based on a familial relationship and an alleged oath of fealty from Harold. William assembled a large army and landed at Pevensey in Sussex, moving towards Hastings. The battle itself was intense, with William's forces employing cavalry and archers against Harold's largely infantry-based army. The English formed a shield wall but were eventually broken when they pursued retreating Norman troops, making them vulnerable to cavalry attacks. King Harold was killed, and his army retreated. The battle's outcome marked the beginning of Norman rule in England, significantly altering the country's language, culture, and governance. William was crowned king on Christmas Day 1066, and his reign led to the construction of castles and the establishment of a new aristocracy.