The English Civil War (Battle of Caldbeck)

The Death of Harold
After 15 years of Harold II rule England was one of the most prosperous countries in Europe, a great trading nation whose ships ranged from Al Andalus to the Baltic, to Greenland. Her King seemed in rude health, despite his age, and it appeared that England's prosperity was assured.

In February 1081 Harold was hunting with Edmund of Mercia and his son Harold Godwine MacHarold near Knutsford, Cheshire when his horse stepped in a mole hill and threw him head first. He was taken to Knutsford where he died 2 days later, of head injuries. Harold was able to communicate for part of the first day, during which time he spoke alone for an hour with Harold Godwine MacHarold.

Upon the King's death, riders were sent out to summon a Witanmoot at Northampton, to be held one month later. Many there would have valid claim to the throne, but a compromise would have to be reached which would be acceptable to everyone.