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England's Influence On Normandy

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Although England’s monarchy has played a prominent role throughout its history, its very first monarch was actually a conqueror from another land. King William began his journey in Normandy, a region that is current-day France. Sometime during the year of 1028, he was born in Falaise, France to Arlette (also known as Herleva), a tanner’s daughter, and Robert I, the Duke of Normandy. As an illegitimate son of his father, he was known as William the Bastard among his enemies and critics. He eventually rose to power through his conquest of England, and all throughout history his descendants held the English throne. William the Conqueror married Matilda of Flanders as an assurance of an alliance, and they had 4 sons, one of which died at an early age. William’s son, Robert, would become the future Duke of Normandy, and William Rufus …show more content…

He was also able to persuade the Pope to back him, because the Pope was outraged that Harold had sworn on his precious holy relics and didn’t keep his word. With the power of holy influence and 700 ships, William set sail towards England to claim back what was rightfully his. Fortunately for the enraged Duke, England was already occupied fighting Tostig and another Harold, a Norwegian duke, who wanted the throne as well. Nevertheless, King Harold was able to meet William’s troops in a final battle which would eventually be known as the Battle of Hastings. In September 1066, the Normans (France) and the Anglo-Saxons (England) finally met and charged into battle. Due to the inefficiency of warfare during this era, none of the soldiers could see their leaders, who were feared dead on multiple occasions. Duke William finally turned the tide of battle by yelling out and rallying his troops, and the battle was won when King Harold was shot in the eye. At long last, William the Conqueror had gotten his crown, and was now the ruler of

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