One of the main criticisms of Harold's leadership is his decision to divide his army after the Battle of Fulford. Having defeated the Norwegian invaders at Stamford Bridge, Harold marched south to confront the invading Normans under William the Conqueror. However, he chose to leave a significant portion of his army behind in the north of England, which weakened his forces and contributed to his defeat at the Battle of Hastings.
Harold's military strategy has also been criticized for being too defensive. At Hastings, he relied on a static shield wall formation, which proved ineffective against the Norman cavalry and archers. Some historians argue that a more aggressive approach, such as a cavalry charge, might have turned the tide of the battle in Harold's favor.
Another common criticism of Harold is his lack of political foresight. He failed to secure the loyalty of his own brother Tostig, who allied with the Norwegian king Harald Hardrada and invaded England in 1066. Additionally, Harold's relationship with the English nobles was strained due to his conflicts with powerful earls such as Edwin of Mercia and Morcar of Northumbria. These internal divisions further weakened his position and made it easier for William the Conqueror to establish his rule over England.
However, Harold's supporters argue that he was a capable leader who faced extraordinary challenges in the face of two simultaneous invasions. They point to his victory at Stamford Bridge as evidence of his military prowess and note that his defensive tactics at Hastings were the best option given the circumstances. Additionally, they argue that Harold was a victim of betrayal and deceit, as many of his supposed allies ultimately turned against him.
Ultimately, Harold Godwineson's leadership remains a subject of debate among historians. While he certainly made some strategic errors, he also faced difficult circumstances and displayed some notable strengths. His legacy as a leader is complex and multifaceted, reflecting both his achievements and his shortcomings.