The Battle of Hastings was fought for the English crown. In 1051 Edward the Confessor probably designated William, duke of Normandy, a cousin, as his heir. According to Norman accounts, Edward sent Harold, earl of Wessex, to Normandy in 1064 to confirm his promise to William, and Harold swore to defend William’s claim. Nevertheless, on his deathbed Edward granted the kingdom to Harold, who was crowned the next day. In response, William gathered an army.
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