History Quiz - The Norman Conquest 03 (Questions)

This KS3 History quiz takes a further look at the Norman Conquest. At the time that William of Normandy was setting off to invade England, Harold II had headed up north to beat the army of his brother Tostig and his ally, Harald Hardrada. The Norwegian army had defeated the Earls of Northumberland at the Battle of Fulford which had taken place near York.

Harold's army took the Norwegians by surprise at the place now known as Stamford Bridge. There are several slightly different accounts of where it took place and exactly what happened. During the battle, both Tostig and Harald Hardrada were killed, ending the Norwegian invasion.

Following that battle, the English army marched south once again and set up camp close to where William had invaded.

The Saxon army of Harold established a position on Senlac Hill, close to the present day town of Battle. The English forces were fooled by a French tactic of pretending to run away. Harold's men rushed after, thinking the French were defeated, and were slaughtered by knights on horseback. This left weaknesses in the English defences. After a long fight, King Harold was killed and many of the English army fled, leaving just Harold's housecarls to fight a rearguard action.