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In her blog The death of Edward the Confessor and the conflicting claims to the English Crown Dr Jessica Nelson argues that 'Edward himself should shoulder some of the blame for the succession crisis.' How far do you agree with this view? - OCR Gateway - GCSE History - Question 8 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 8
In her blog The death of Edward the Confessor and the conflicting claims to the English Crown Dr Jessica Nelson argues that 'Edward himself should shoulder some of t... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:In her blog The death of Edward the Confessor and the conflicting claims to the English Crown Dr Jessica Nelson argues that 'Edward himself should shoulder some of the blame for the succession crisis.' How far do you agree with this view? - OCR Gateway - GCSE History - Question 8 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Evaluate Edward's Role in the Succession Crisis
Answer
Edward the Confessor's reign lasted until 1066, and his promises significantly impacted the succession crisis. It's crucial to discuss that his death without a clear heir led to conflicting claims. Thus, the argument can be made that his inability to name a successor contributed greatly to the ensuing chaos.
Step 2
Assess the Influence of Promises Made
Answer
Edward's promises to various claimants, such as William of Normandy and Harold Godwinson, created further tensions. Specifically, Edward promised the crown to William, which Harold later usurped. This situation illuminates a level of recklessness on Edward's part, implying he should indeed be held partially accountable.
Step 3
Consider External Pressures
Answer
Despite arguing Edward's culpability, it's essential to consider the external political pressures he faced. The role of powerful nobles and the complex political landscape of 11th century England means that while Edward played a considerable role, he was also a victim of broader forces beyond his control.
Step 4
Conclusion: Balancing Perspectives
Answer
In conclusion, while Edward the Confessor's failure to provide a clear succession plan can be seen as a major catalyst for the succession crisis, the analysis must also acknowledge the roles played by other powerful figures and the political environment of the time. A balanced view considers both Edward's responsibility and the far-reaching consequences of noble power struggles.