From Hastings to Crowning

Reinforcements continued to steam across the Channel into England, however, massing at William's side and strengthening his grip on the country. The vanguard made its way to what William considered the Island's most important city, London. Along the way, they were met with stones, spears, swords, and cheers, depending on the audience. They eventually reached London and settled in for negotiations. In the end, William's patience was rewarded. It also didn't that dedication to Normandy was still in fashion in certain powerful quarters. It should be remembered that Edward the Confessor had installed Normans in key government posts and had relied on their counsel and adopted many of their customs. That affectation continued to resonate through the years, and no doubt had something to do with William's eventual ascension to the throne.

Since William had the upper hand, he got most of what he wanted, including the crown of England. He was crowned in Edward the Confessor's Church at Westminster, the first English monarch to be so recognized. A new era had begun. It wasn't born overnight, and it was carried out largely through the determination and perceived spite of one man. But it would change the face of England-and the world-forever.

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