Harold Godwinson

"A strong ruler and a skilled general, he held the crown for nine months in 1066 before he was killed at the Battle of Hastings by Norman invaders under William the Conqueror."

- Encyclopædia Britannica

The son of a Godwin, the powerful earl of Wessex, and Gytha Thorkelsdottir, the sister-in-law of King Cnut of England, Harold Godwinson became a respected and powerful noble within the kingdom. Godwinson was known for his skillful ability to lead men in battle and govern land well, shown when he was appointed as earl of East Anglia in 1044.

Once his father died in 1063, he succeeded him as Earl of Wessex, supported by his brother and becoming the right-hand man of King Edward the Confessor. Godwinson later proved his ability as a commander against the Welsh, orchestrating a brilliant campaign alongside his brother Tostig. This excellent ability to subdue the Welsh armies solidified his reputation as a commander, and made Edward the Confessor appoint him as an emissary to his trusted ally William the Conqueror.

While there, Harold made an oath to William that he would make no attempt to succeed Edward upon the thrown. However, Harold would break this vow; In 1066, Edward announced Harold as his successor over his grandson Edgar of Aethling and William the Conqueror. Harold would be forced to fight for his throne when the Viking king Harald Hardrada joined in an alliance with Harold's exiled brother Tostig, as well as the upset Norman king William.

Harold once again proved his abilities as a commander, effortlessly defeating Hardrada at the Battle of Stamford Bridge. However, Harold's luck had finally run out; William's ships had arrived on the south of England, and Harold was forced to rush impatiently to face him at Hastings. Harold's forces, while initially succeeding against the Normans, were defeated as William manipulated them by feigning retreats. Harold was then killed in battle, when a Norman's arrow pierced his eye and killed him.