BattlefieldsEdgar Atheling at York 1069
Medieval

Edgar Atheling at York 1069

1069
England
Era
Medieval
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Norman garrison of York
Forces
Norman garrison of York
VS
Victor
Edgar Aetheling and northern English rebels with Danish allies
Forces
Edgar Aetheling with northern English rebels and Danish allies
Outcome
Edgar led the capture of York and briefly installed himself as claimant before William retook the city
The Battle

History & Significance

Edgar Aetheling, the last legitimate Wessex claimant to the English throne, led the combined English and Danish forces that stormed York in September 1069, annihilating the Norman garrison. His presence gave the revolt royal legitimacy and brought the cause to its highest point since Hastings. Though Edgar lacked the military capacity to hold York long-term, his leadership briefly made the Norman settlement appear reversible.

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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