The Reign of the Monarch Who Ascended to the Throne After King Harold I- A New Era Unfolds

Who was king after Harold I? This question often arises in discussions about the history of England, particularly during the 10th century. Harold I, also known as Harold Godwinson, was a significant figure in English history, but his reign came to an end with his death in 1066. Understanding who succeeded him is crucial for comprehending the subsequent events that shaped the course of English history.

Harold II, also known as Harold Godwinson, became the king after the death of his father, Harold I. Born in 1032, Harold II was the son of Godwin, Earl of Wessex, and Gytha of the Wuffingas. He ascended to the throne after the Battle of Hastings, where his father, Harold I, was killed. Despite being the son of the previous king, Harold II faced significant challenges in securing his position as the legitimate ruler of England.

Upon ascending to the throne, Harold II had to contend with the Norman Conquest, led by William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy. The Norman Conquest was a pivotal event in English history, as it marked the end of the Anglo-Saxon period and the beginning of the Norman period. Harold II’s reign was characterized by his efforts to defend England against the Norman invasion, which ultimately led to his death at the Battle of Hastings.

Despite his efforts, Harold II was unable to prevent the Norman Conquest. William the Conqueror, who emerged victorious from the Battle of Hastings, became the new king of England. Harold II’s death at the hands of William the Conqueror marked the end of the Anglo-Saxon monarchy and the beginning of a new era in English history.

In conclusion, after the death of Harold I, Harold II became the king of England. However, his reign was short-lived, as he was defeated and killed by William the Conqueror at the Battle of Hastings. The Norman Conquest that followed had a profound impact on England, leading to the end of the Anglo-Saxon period and the beginning of the Norman period. Understanding the events surrounding Harold II’s reign is essential for comprehending the complex history of England during this critical period.