alternatehistory.com

There was a moment in the Battle of Hastings when the Breton soldiers of William's left flank broke and routed, and were pursued by the Anglo-Saxon fyrdmen (levy soldiers) and huscarls. During this struggle, William attempted to shore up the flank--however, his horse was killed under him and he fell to the ground, leading many Normans to believe him dead. Quite a number began fleeing. However, luckily for the de Normandies, William managed to stand and rally his troops. Only thirty minutes later, Harold and his brothers Leofwyne and Gyrthe were all dead, wiping out the Godwinson family for good.

What I'm asking here is what if William had been killed by the fall from his horse? It seems quite likely that the Normans would have been routed and the Godwinsons won the day. Having defeated the other powerful claimants to the English throne, what would be Harold's next move? Also, as a side question, would Harold be excommunicated by the pope for destroying what was essentially a papally-sanctioned expedition?

(thinking of doing a new TL with this POD)
Top