History A-Level
Succession and legitimacy
What Succession and legitimacy means in History A-Level, as defined for Pearson Edexcel.
Definition of Succession and legitimacy
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Succession and legitimacy in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: Pearson Edexcel
Edward the Confessor died in January 1066 without a clear heir, triggering a succession crisis among claimants including Harold Godwinson, William of Normandy, Harald Hardrada and Edgar Ætheling.
Topics that use Succession and legitimacy
- Late Anglo- Saxon England, c1053–66 (Pearson Edexcel A-Level)
Related terms
- Coinage and monetary control
- Earldoms and regional governance
- Family and succession
- Invasion and warfare
- Kingship and counsel
- Military campaigns and diplomacy
- Military leadership and logistics
- Overseas trade and ports
Using Succession and legitimacy in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise History questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All History A-Level termsA week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge