Tostig Godwinson, Earl of Northumbria

Tostig Godwinson was an Anglo-Saxon Earl of Northumbria and the brother of King Harold Godwinson. Born around 1029, he was the third son of Godwin, Earl of Wessex, and Gytha Thorkelsdóttir. In 1051, he married Judith of Flanders, the daughter of Baldwin IV, Count of Flanders. Tostig became the Earl of Northumbria in 1055 after the death of Earl Siward.

His governance in Northumbria faced difficulties, as he was unpopular with the local ruling class. Tostig's rule included the assassination of several Northumbrian leaders, which contributed to his unpopularity. In 1065, the thegns of York and Yorkshire rebelled, declaring Tostig outlawed and replacing him with Morcar. His brother Harold Godwinson negotiated with the rebels, leading to Tostig's exile.

After his exile, Tostig sought support from various allies, including his brother-in-law Baldwin V and King Malcolm III of Scotland. He eventually allied with King Harald Hardrada of Norway, persuading him to invade England. In September 1066, Tostig and Hardrada defeated the forces of Morcar and Edwin at the Battle of Fulford, but were later surprised by King Harold Godwinson at Stamford Bridge.

Tostig Godwinson was killed at the Battle of Stamford Bridge on 25 September 1066, alongside Harald Hardrada. He was buried at York Minster. After his death, Morcar succeeded him as Earl of Northumbria.