Normans 1.2

When was the Battle of Stamford Bridge?

• 20th September 1066

• 25th September 1066

• 14th October 1066

• 5th January 1066

Answer explanation

The Battle of Stamford Bridge occurred on 25th September 1066, marking a significant conflict between the English and the Norwegians, led by King Harald Hardrada.

Which two forces fought at Stamford Bridge?

• Harold Godwinson and Harald Hardrada

• William of Normandy and Harold Godwinson

• Edgar Aetheling and Harald Hardrada

• William of Normandy and Tostig Godwinson

Answer explanation

The Battle of Stamford Bridge in 1066 was fought between Harold Godwinson, the English king, and Harald Hardrada, the Norwegian king. This battle marked a significant conflict in the lead-up to the Norman Conquest.

What was the outcome of the Battle of Stamford Bridge?

• The Vikings captured York

• Hardrada and Tostig were killed, and the Viking army was defeated

• Harold was captured

• The Vikings agreed to support Harold

Answer explanation

The Battle of Stamford Bridge resulted in the defeat of the Viking army, with their leaders Hardrada and Tostig killed. This marked a significant turning point in the conflict between the English and the Vikings.

Why did the Battle of Stamford Bridge weaken Harold’s position before Hastings?

• His navy was destroyed

• His army was tired and had to march 300 miles south

• He lost all his cavalry

• His brother Edwin betrayed him

Answer explanation

The Battle of Stamford Bridge exhausted Harold's army, forcing them to march 300 miles south to face William at Hastings. This fatigue weakened their combat effectiveness, making them more vulnerable in the subsequent battle.

When did the Battle of Hastings take place?

• 28th September 1066

• 14th October 1066

• 21st October 1066

• 1st November 1066

Answer explanation

The Battle of Hastings occurred on 14th October 1066, marking a pivotal moment in English history as William the Conqueror defeated King Harold II, leading to Norman control of England.

Where did William land his forces in England?

• Dover

• London

• Pevensey

• Stamford

Answer explanation

William landed his forces at Pevensey in 1066, marking the beginning of the Norman Conquest of England. This location was strategically chosen for its proximity to London and its defensible position.

Why was Harold’s position at Hastings strong at the start of the battle?

• He held the high ground on Senlac Hill

• He had more cavalry than William

• He had built a defensive castle

• He had Norman archers supporting him

Answer explanation

Harold's position was strong at Hastings because he held the high ground on Senlac Hill, giving him a tactical advantage over William's forces, who had to attack uphill.

What formation did Harold’s army use at Hastings?

• Wedge

• Shield wall

• Square

• Spear circle

Answer explanation

Harold's army used the shield wall formation at the Battle of Hastings. This defensive tactic involved soldiers standing close together with their shields overlapping, providing a strong barrier against enemy attacks.

Why was the shield wall effective?

• It allowed cavalry to pass through

• It was used for long-range attacks

• It was a tightly packed defensive formation difficult to break

• It trapped enemies inside

Answer explanation

The shield wall was effective because it formed a tightly packed defensive formation that was difficult for enemies to break through, providing strong protection for the soldiers behind it.

What tactic did the Normans use to weaken the shield wall?

• Feigned retreat to break the formation

• Set fire to the battlefield

• Dug traps along the hillside

• Used elephants in battle

Answer explanation

The Normans used a feigned retreat to lure the enemy out of formation, weakening the shield wall. This tactic created openings for their forces to exploit, leading to a more effective attack.