Harold II Godwinson

Harold Godwinson, also known as Harold II, was the last crowned Anglo-Saxon king of England. His reign lasted from 6 January 1066 until his death at the Battle of Hastings on 14 October 1066, which occurred during the Norman Conquest of England. His defeat and demise brought an end to Anglo-Saxon governance in England. Harold was a member of the influential Anglo-Saxon Godwin family and rose to power following the death of his father, becoming a powerful earl. Upon the death of his brother-in-law, King Edward the Confessor, Harold was chosen by the Witenagemot to succeed to the throne, likely being the first English monarch crowned in Westminster Abbey.

Before facing the Normans, Harold repelled an invasion by Harald Hardrada of Norway at York. He then marched his forces southward to confront William the Conqueror at Hastings. His familial background included ties to Cnut the Great, and throughout his life, Harold held various earldoms, significantly increasing his influence. He played a role in English politics, notably leading campaigns against the Welsh and opposing Norman influence during Edward the Confessor’s reign.