What factors contributed to the successful invasion of England by William the Conqueror?
William’s tenuous blood claim coupled with the promise of the previous monarch Edward the Confessor, a pledge of allegiance by Harold Godwinson and the other claim to the throne by Viking king Harald Hardrada were the most important factors in the successful invasion.
Upon the death of Edward the Confessor the throne was disputed by three Claimants- William; Harold Godwinson, the powerful Earl of Wessex; and the Viking King Harald Hardrada of Norway. Williams claim came from his great Aunt who was the Mother of Edward and also from the alleged promise of the throne by Edward whilst he was in exile in Normandy. This led to the establishment of a powerful Norman interest in English politics, as Edward drew heavily on Norman support, bringing in Norman courtiers, soldiers, and clerics and appointing Normans to positions of power, particularly in the Church. Childless and embroiled in conflict with the formidable Godwin, Earl of Wessex and his sons, Edward may also have encouraged Duke William of Normandy's ambitions for the English throne; however William was betrayed when Edward named Harold his successor in his will. Harold also supposedly sworn Allegiance to William in 1064 after he had rescued Harold from the count of Ponthieu, Harold was then deceived by having him swear loyalty to William himself over the bones of the concealed bones of a saint. The validity of this promise is questionable however as having been rescued by William and in his care. This all meant that William could successfully submit his claim to throne to Pope Alexander the second who in turn sent him a consecrated banner in support.
