the+four+claimants

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**THE FOUR CLAIMANTS TO THE THRONE **

**__ William of Normandy __** William was the Duke of Normandy. As Duke of Normandy, he was used to ruling a large land. He had a blood relationship with Edward the Confessor: he was his first cousin's son. He had always said that Edward had promised him the crown of England. William claimed that Harold of Wessex had sworn on the relics of a martyred saint that he would support William's right to the throne. He had the support of the Pope who promptly excommunicated Harold, consigning him and his supporters to an eternity in Hell.

**__ Harold Hardrada __** Hardrada had inherited land from king Cnut, who had once been a King of England. Hardrada said that this meant he had a right to be the King of England as well. He was supported by Tostig, Harold of Wessex's brother. Hardrada was very powerful as he was already the King of Norway.

**__ Edgar Etheling __**

Edgar was the only blood relative to King Edward. He was Edward's great nephew. As he was only a child many people thought that he wouldn't be a good king if England was attacked.

**__ Harold of Wessex __** Harold was the Earl of Wessex and so, he was the most powerful man in England as Wessex was a very rich and important area. He was the King’s advisor. Harold became Edward’s brother-in-law when the king married Harold's sister. On his deathbed Edward promised Harold the crown. He was the favourite of many members of the Witan who would choose the next King: in 1066 you didn't have to be the closest relation to be the next monarch.