Why was William the Conqueror so cruel?
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Why was William the Conqueror so cruel?
Taking control of England Known as the ‘Harrying of the North’ during the winter of 1069-70 William’s army laid waste to northern parts of his kingdom, destroying homes and fields. He cut down many people and destroyed homes and land. Nowhere else had he shown such cruelty.
What did William do to the Anglo-Saxons?
The system of giving land in exchange for duties had existed before the Norman Conquest but William confiscated land from Anglo-Saxons, which created a whole new power structure. Norman feudalism was based on royal strength. The king owned all the land but gave some to the barons.
What tactic did William use first against the Saxons?
Harold had to rush north to fight Harald Hardrada as his northern armies had not defeated him. Harold fought at Hastings with a weakened army as a result of the Battle of Stamford Bridge. William used the tactic of a false retreat in an attempt the break the shield wall and lure English troops off the ridge.
What did William do to the Anglo Saxon nobility?
William’s wholesale confiscation of land from English nobles and their heirs (many nobles had died at the battles of Stamford Bridge and Senlac) enabled him to recruit and retain an army, by demanding military duties in exchange for land tenancy granted to Norman, French and Flemish allies.
Why was William a good leader?
William the Conqueror was an effective leader due to his pragmatic approach. William was able to recognize and exploit his enemies weaknesses and…
Why was William the Conqueror a good leader?
Who rebelled against William the Conqueror?
Hereward the Wake, (flourished 1070–71), Anglo-Saxon rebel against William the Conqueror and the hero of many Norman and English legends. He is associated with a region in present-day Huntingdonshire and Northamptonshire.
What strategy did William use to trick the Anglo-Saxons?
William instructed his archers to aim at the shield wall just as his infantry would meet it simultaneously. The Anglo-Saxons could raise their shield to defend a falling arrow, but not keep it against their body to defend a thrusting sword at the same time.