Harold Godwinson Becomes King, 6th January 1066 (Edexcel GCSE History)

The Witan chose Harold Godwinson as the King of England. Harold's coronation took place on 6th January 1066. This was on the same day as Edward the Confessor's funeral. The time between the king's death and the new king's coronation was usually months. Harold wanted the Witan to crown him quickly. He needed to seize the opportunity to become king before other claimants had the chance. 

The quick coronation also benefited the English nobility. The earls of the Witan and the English thegns worried about the threats from Normandy and Scandinavia. By supporting Harold Godwinson, they believed that he would protect their interests.

Problems that Harold faced as king

Harold's actions

The Earl of Mercia

Harold raised the biggest fleet and army that England had ever seen. He ensured all earls contributed to the fyrd. Mercia defeated Tostig's army, showing the earldom's loyalty to Harold

Northumbria

Harold travelled to York. He met with members of the Witan who had not attended the meeting in London. He ensured that he had their support for his reign

Tostig

Tostig, with support from his wife's family in Flanders, assembled an invasion force. He arrived in England in May 1066. Once Tostig discovered the size of Harold's army, he left. Tostig sailed to Lincoln and fought Mercia. He fled with only 12 ships to Scotland. He began talks with Harald Hardrada

William, Duke of Normandy

Harold placed his army on the south coast for the whole summer at huge expense. William's army did not arrive. In September 1066, Harold stood down the army