Claim to the English Throne: Following the death of Edward the Confessor in 1066, there were several claimants to the English throne. Edward had named William, Duke of Normandy, as his heir, but this was disputed by other powerful Anglo-Saxon nobles. William's claim was based on his familial relationship with Edward and his promise to restore the rights and privileges of the English nobility.
English Political Instability: The English kingdom was experiencing political instability and internal conflicts prior to William's invasion. Rival factions and power struggles among the Anglo-Saxon nobility weakened the central authority of the king. William saw this as an opportune moment to intervene and exploit the divided state of England.
Military Strength: William had built a formidable military force in Normandy, which included cavalry, infantry, and archers. His strategic planning, capable leadership, and military discipline gave him an advantage over the English armies, which were primarily composed of infantry. The Normans were also skilled in castle-building, providing them with strategic strongholds in conquered territories.
Support from English Nobles: Some English nobles, such as Edwin, Earl of Mercia, and Morcar, Earl of Northumbria, initially supported William's invasion. They believed that William would respect their authority and maintain their privileges. This initial support helped William secure a foothold in England and weakened the resistance against him.
Invasion Timing: William chose to invade England at a time when the country was vulnerable. King Harold II, the main opponent of William's claim, had just defeated a Norse invasion in the north of England and was caught off guard by William's landing in the south. Harold had to rush his army south to confront the Normans, stretching his resources and tiring his troops.
Defeat of Harold: The Battle of Hastings, fought on October 14, 1066, was a decisive victory for William. Harold's army was defeated, and he was killed in the battle. With the death of Harold, William consolidated his hold over England and asserted his authority as the new king.