William and Harold: Leadership Decisions at Hastings and Why They Mattered Flashcards

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Why was Harold Godwinson’s march from Stamford Bridge to the south coast a risky leadership decision?

Harold marched his army about 500 kilometres in a few days after fighting at Stamford Bridge. This left many of his men tired, hurt, or missing. A tired and smaller army was less likely to beat William at Hastings.

What different choice could Harold have made instead of attacking William straight away at Hastings?

Harold could have stayed in London for longer. This would have given him time to rest his men and gather more soldiers. He could then force William to move first and maybe fight on better terms.

Why did Harold choose to fight on the ridge at Senlac Hill using a shield wall?

Harold chose the high ground and a tight shield wall to block Norman attacks. This made it hard for Norman cavalry and infantry to break through. It was a strong defence but made it harder for the English to move and chase the enemy safely.

How did Harold’s decision to keep his men holding the shield wall all day affect the battle?

Harold kept his men standing in the shield wall for many hours. They became tired and some broke ranks to chase the Normans. This created gaps in the wall, which the Normans used to get onto the hill.

Why was Harold’s control over his less-trained fyrd soldiers a leadership problem at Hastings?

Many fyrd soldiers were farmers with little training. Harold could not stop some of them from running down the hill after the Normans. Their lack of discipline weakened the English line and helped William.

Why was William’s decision to wait for the right wind before sailing to England important?

William waited until the wind changed so his ships could cross the Channel safely together. This meant most of his knights, horses, and supplies arrived in one strong force. A safe crossing helped him be ready for battle at Hastings.

How did William’s choice to build a wooden castle at Hastings show good leadership?

William built a quick wooden castle near Hastings when he landed. This gave him a safe base and a place to store food and weapons. From there, he could raid the area and force Harold to come and fight him.

How did William’s use of archers, infantry, and cavalry in stages help him at Hastings?

William sent in archers first, then foot soldiers, then cavalry. This wore down the English shield wall and tested it in different ways. Using all three types of troops together showed careful planning and made his attacks stronger.

Why did William order his men to pretend to run away, and why did this matter?

William used a fake retreat to trick the English. When some Normans turned and ran, English soldiers chased them down the hill. The Normans then turned and attacked, breaking parts of the shield wall and turning the battle.

How did William’s response to the rumour of his death during the battle help the Normans?

When men thought William had been killed, he lifted his helmet so they could see his face. This proved he was alive and still leading them. His action raised Norman morale and kept his army together in a hard fight.

In what main way did William’s leadership differ from Harold’s at Hastings?

Harold rushed to fight and mainly relied on a strong shield wall. William planned more carefully, used his different troops in new ways, and adapted his tactics during the battle. These leadership differences helped William win.

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