14 oct. 1066 - Battle of Hastings

Description:

Harold was killed and his army defeated by William at the Battle of Hastings.

Events:
-Harold did not achieve a surprise attack.
-William sent his footsoldiers in first to attempt to break Harold's shield wall and when failed used archers.
-Rumours that William had been killed spread around the troops, but he took off his helmet and rallied his troops.
-The tactic of a feigned retreat meant that part of the shield wall was broken up and allowed William's cavalry to break the wall down.

Reasons for William's Victory:
-William's troops were extremely well-trained and had horses which helped break down the shield wall. Their saddles allowed their arms to remain free to attack.
-Although Harold's troops were well-trained, their shield wall tactic depended on their discipline and endurance. Once the shield wall was broken, the soldiers were vulnerable.
-William's tactics of a feigned retreat and cavalry allowed him to break the shield wall.
-William's invasion had been planned meticulously for months and he had successfully transported all of his troops, equipment and supplies across the channel.
-On his arrival, William built a castle which he used as a base and waited for Harold to come to him.
-Harold's troops were exhausted from the march south and their previous battles.
-Harold disbanded the southern fyrd at the beginning of September.

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