Description
In 1066, Harold Godwinson faced two invasions, but the first crisis came from the north. Harald Hardrada of Norway landed with Harold’s exiled brother Tostig, defeated northern English forces at Fulford, and moved toward Stamford Bridge near York to receive hostages. Harold answered with a forced march to Yorkshire, catching the Norwegian army off guard and turning a dangerous invasion into a decisive English victory.
This documentary follows Edward the Confessor’s death, Harold’s fragile kingship, the defeat at Fulford, the urgent march north, and the battle that killed both Hardrada and Tostig. Stamford Bridge saved northern England, but its timing was brutal. Only days later, Harold had to turn south again to face William of Normandy at Hastings, making Stamford Bridge a victory that came just before England’s next crisis.