Arabic version: بحث يعيد تفسير استراتيجية الملك هارولد في معركة هاستينغز

A new study challenges the long-held belief that King Harold II disbanded his navy before the pivotal Battle of Hastings in 1066. Tom Licence, a professor of medieval history at the University of East Anglia, argues that a misinterpretation of Old English records has skewed historical understanding of Harold’s military decisions.

According to The Guardian, Licence suggests that instead of marching nearly 300 miles to confront the Vikings led by Harald Hardrada, Harold may have actually sailed to Yorkshire. This revelation could reshape narratives surrounding the English king’s defeat by William the Conqueror.

Historically, it was believed that Harold had no naval support and was forced to undertake a grueling march after defeating Hardrada. However, Licence points to evidence in the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle indicating that the English fleet was still operational. He asserts that the phrase “came home” referred to returning to a base in London, not disbanding the fleet.

This re-evaluation of the sources reveals that Harold had maintained his naval forces, which he could have used strategically against William’s invading fleet. Licence’s findings will be presented at an upcoming conference at the University of Oxford on 24 March.

Experts in the field, such as Rebecca Tyson from the University of Bristol, acknowledge the significance of this research, emphasizing the maritime aspects of the events of 1066 that have often been overlooked. Prof. Michael Lewis from the British Museum also supports the notion that Harold’s naval strategy offers a more logical explanation for his movements during this critical period in English history.