Why there were a number of claimants to the English throne in 1066?
There were four ways to become an Anglo Saxon king. These are, designation, acclamation , inheritance or conquest. All four were legitimate. Harold Godwinson claimed to have been designated, and had commanded the King’s forces. However, this was after the rebellion of 1051, not to mention the rebellious behaviour of his brothers. The norse claimants, Harald Hardrada and Sweyn Estrithson, both based their claims on England being part of Cnut’s Empire, from 1013 to 1042. William claimed to have been designated. Edward had liked his Normans and appointed Robert of Jumieges as Archbishop until the Godwinsons ousted him and replaced him with Stigand. This was why the Pope backed William. If the wind had blown differently, Harald Hardrada would have conquered England. Sweyn’s fleet was destroyed in storms in 1068, in case you were wondering. No Hardrada you dan me jokes, thank you.
