William the Conqueror and the Battle of Hastings - 1066
How would you like to be crowned king on Christmas Day? William the Conqueror, who was the duke ruling over Normandy (in France), claimed to be a Christian, although his life seemed to represent some Viking features. They worshiped the god 'Woden' and lived very much like pirates. Although they called themselves Christians, you have to wonder if they really understood the message of the Gospel.
Two events happened at the same time. Alfred the Great, who also claimed to be a Christian, gave the Danes part of England, while the French king gave the Norsemen part of France, which was called 'Normandy'.
At this time, William was not happy with just being a duke. He really wanted to be the king of England. There was an English prince named 'Harold' who was shipwrecked on the coast of Normandy. He was caught and brought before William and William decided to take advantage of the situation. He made Harold promise that when he became king, Harold would give England to William and William would be king. Harold did become king, but he did not keep his promise. This angered William so William had Harold killed and crowned himself King of England on Christmas Day! This Battle was known as the 'Battle of Hastings'. William marched into London and proclaimed himself king.
However, William only remained a duke in France, even though he thought of himself as the king of England. France and England were at odds with each other through the next eight centuries. The English kings were trying to protect their holdings in France. Battles and arguments continued. This is the pattern of the History of mankind. Human beings are never satisfied with what they have given to them. They have always, and will always want more. This will happen until we are in the next life (called the Regeneration). Until then, we need the help of God to live godly lives and to get along with other people.
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