Reasons for William of Normandy’s decision to invade England in 1066: his…

The idea

William of Normandy’s decision to invade England in 1066 rested on three interlocking factors. First, his claim to the throne: he asserted that Edward the Confessor had promised him the crown and that Harold Godwinson had sworn an oath to support him, perhaps on relics at Bayeux or Bonneville. Second, the military power of Normandy: William could call on armoured knights, a formidable cavalry charge, and a fleet of perhaps 700 ships, giving him the means to project force across the Channel. Third, papal support: William secured a papal banner from Alexander II, which turned the invasion into a holy war, attracting volunteers and legitimising his cause. Together, these reasons made invasion feasible and justifiable, though each is debated by historians.

What earns the marks

• Explains William’s claim to the throne through Edward the Confessor’s alleged promise and Harold’s oath, showing how these gave him a legal and moral case.
• Analyses the military power of Normandy, including knights, cavalry, and shipbuilding capacity, as the practical means of invasion.
• Assesses the role of papal support in providing legitimacy, recruits, and spiritual rewards, and how it strengthened William’s position.
• Evaluates the relative importance of the three reasons, considering whether any one was decisive or whether they worked together.
• Uses specific evidence, such as the Bayeux Tapestry’s depiction of Harold’s oath or the papal banner, to support arguments.

Common mistakes and how to put them right

• Treating the three reasons as separate and unconnected.

  Put it right: Show how they reinforced each other, for example papal support made it easier to recruit knights.

• Assuming Harold’s oath is undisputed fact.

  Put it right: Acknowledge that the sources are partisan and historians debate what was promised.

• Overstating the size or quality of William’s army without considering logistical challenges.

  Put it right: Discuss the difficulty of maintaining a fleet and supplying troops across the Channel.

Exam tips

• Plan your answer around the three stated reasons, ensuring each is explained and linked to William’s decision.
• Use precise evidence, such as the date of Harold’s oath or the role of Hildebrand, to support your points.
• Consider counterarguments or alternative interpretations, for example that William’s claim was a pretext for expansion, to reach higher levels.