All right, we often like to discuss what would have happened if Harold Godwinson had crushed William the Bastard at the Battle of Hastings. And, I feel, for good reason; its one of those few times in history when a single battle completely changed the development of a nation, its language, government and culture. (also, I love a good Harold Godwinson timeline!)
However, there has been a lot less discussion over the years of what could have happened in Harald Hardarda carried the day at Stanford Bridge. So, for sake of argument, lets say that at the end of the day Harald's raven flag stands in victory over the battlefield and, since I'm not feeling too generous, that annoying sot Tostig Godwinson also managed to survive unharmed.
Harald now has to rush south and secure London before William arrives and drive the Normans off in order to secure his own claim on England. Luckily, the fates are with him. Although tired, Harald's forces make the long march to Hastings, just as Harold's did in OTL. The ensuing battle is close but, the fates smile upon the Norwegians and William is thrown from his horse and trampled to death at some point in the conflict. The demoralized Normans soon break and are scattered. Harald is now left in control of all of England; a point that he forcibly makes to the nobles in London who, upon seeing the strength of his ... claim, formally declare him King.
Now what? (I have some ideas, but am more interesting in what others have to say. I will share them later)
However, there has been a lot less discussion over the years of what could have happened in Harald Hardarda carried the day at Stanford Bridge. So, for sake of argument, lets say that at the end of the day Harald's raven flag stands in victory over the battlefield and, since I'm not feeling too generous, that annoying sot Tostig Godwinson also managed to survive unharmed.
Harald now has to rush south and secure London before William arrives and drive the Normans off in order to secure his own claim on England. Luckily, the fates are with him. Although tired, Harald's forces make the long march to Hastings, just as Harold's did in OTL. The ensuing battle is close but, the fates smile upon the Norwegians and William is thrown from his horse and trampled to death at some point in the conflict. The demoralized Normans soon break and are scattered. Harald is now left in control of all of England; a point that he forcibly makes to the nobles in London who, upon seeing the strength of his ... claim, formally declare him King.
Now what? (I have some ideas, but am more interesting in what others have to say. I will share them later)