William earlier in 1066
- Thread starter jahenders
- Start date
The Anglo-Saxons would have had a better chance of repelling the invasion. Unless the same pod allows the Norwegians to arrive earlier as well. Then things would be messy.
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This thread, while with a different PoD, may be relevant.
Basically :
William would have less chances to win there. Quicker preparation would probably have meant less men on his side, when Harold would have beneficied from more fresh and important ones, giving that Harold holdings were in southern England : once his army is gathered, it would be simpler to take on the Normans, not suffering the losses and fatigue as coming from Stamford Bridge.
Once William out, I think that (as Harold is still in his core and well held territories), the losses could have been relativly easily replaced, making Haralda's victory not that obvious. Indeed, northern territories weren't really controlled by Godwinson.
Victory wouldn't be as easy than IOTL, though, in spite of Harold's military and commanding skills. A good part of the Saxon victory was based on surprise and preparation after all, and Haralda would have gained time preparing himself.
Basically :
William would have less chances to win there. Quicker preparation would probably have meant less men on his side, when Harold would have beneficied from more fresh and important ones, giving that Harold holdings were in southern England : once his army is gathered, it would be simpler to take on the Normans, not suffering the losses and fatigue as coming from Stamford Bridge.
Once William out, I think that (as Harold is still in his core and well held territories), the losses could have been relativly easily replaced, making Haralda's victory not that obvious. Indeed, northern territories weren't really controlled by Godwinson.
Victory wouldn't be as easy than IOTL, though, in spite of Harold's military and commanding skills. A good part of the Saxon victory was based on surprise and preparation after all, and Haralda would have gained time preparing himself.
jahenders
Banned
I agree with the thoughts mentioned. I think William would have likely lost if he'd been able to sail when he wanted, for several reasons:
1) Harold had a navy patrolling along the South coast. It could haven't defeated William's fleet, but would have done significant damage. IOTL it went to port shortly before William's fleet sailed as the sailing season was nearing completion
2) Harold would have had his full force of Huscarls (professionals) and his full fyrd.
So, I think William would have landed at 70-90% of historical strength and Harold would have been nearly twice as strong. Since it was a near-run thing as it is, Harold would likely have won. Though, facing such odds, William might have entrenched instead of attacking.
1) Harold had a navy patrolling along the South coast. It could haven't defeated William's fleet, but would have done significant damage. IOTL it went to port shortly before William's fleet sailed as the sailing season was nearing completion
2) Harold would have had his full force of Huscarls (professionals) and his full fyrd.
So, I think William would have landed at 70-90% of historical strength and Harold would have been nearly twice as strong. Since it was a near-run thing as it is, Harold would likely have won. Though, facing such odds, William might have entrenched instead of attacking.