jan 1, 1075 - Revolt of the Earls, 1075

Description:

Causes:
-Ralph de Gael was angry that his landholding had been reduced when he inherited it from his father.
-Roger de Bretreuil was resentful of William placing sheriffs in his earldom as it reduced his power and influence.

Events:
At Ralph de Gael's wedding feast, discussed the plans of the revolt with Roger and Waltheof who was the last surviving Anglo-Saxon earl and could win the support of the Danish fleet.
Waltheof thought better of being involved and informed Lanfranc, who was regent at the time, of the revolt. He responded by appealing to Roger, and when this failed, threatened him with excommunication. Norman forces worked together to prevent Ralph and Roger from leaving their earldoms.
The Danes arrived shortly after William's return, but decided better of fighting with him and returned home.
Ralph escaped , Roger was imprisoned and Waltheof was tricked into being pardoned but was later executed.

Effects:
-William now had to face opposition from Norman earls.
-The involvement of the Anglo-Saxons proved they were becoming more accepting of the Norman rule.

Added to timeline:

Date: