Edward the Confessor dies without heir, triggering a bitter struggle to succeed him as King of England. Earl Harold seizes the crown. In Normandy, Duke William believes the crown is his. In Norway, Harald Hardrada thinks it is his.

King Harold of England faces the first test of his reign when his own brother, Tostig, attacks the South Coast. Later in the year, Harald Hardrada lands a Viking army in the North triggering two important battles.