Initial victories: Harold successfully repelled an invasion by the Norwegian King Harald Hardrada and his forces in the Battle of Stamford Bridge in September 1066. This victory demonstrated his battlefield prowess and boosted the morale of his army.
Rallying support: Despite the Norman invasion led by William the Conqueror arriving on the south coast of England shortly after the Battle of Stamford Bridge, Harold was able to rally a significant portion of the English army and march south to confront William.
Strong defensive positions: Harold chose a strong defensive position at the Battle of Hastings, with high ground and a shield wall formation. This allowed the English army to withstand the initial Norman cavalry charges.
On the other hand, some historians argue that Harold made crucial errors that ultimately led to his defeat and death at the Battle of Hastings:
Hasty march: Harold's decision to march rapidly from Stamford Bridge to Hastings was a risky move, as it left his army exhausted and potentially vulnerable to attack.
Lack of cavalry: The English army at Hastings was primarily infantry, while William's forces included a significant cavalry contingent. This imbalance gave the Normans a tactical advantage in mobility and flexibility on the battlefield.
Breach of the shield wall: At a critical moment in the Battle of Hastings, a portion of the English shield wall was breached, allowing the Norman cavalry to penetrate and cause chaos among the defending forces.
Ultimately, Harold's luck in 1066 was a combination of both favorable and unfavorable circumstances. While he achieved notable military successes, his decisions and the challenges he faced ultimately led to his defeat at Hastings and the Norman conquest of England.