The Harrying of the North

The Harrying of the North (winter 1069–1070) was the most brutal and controversial act of William the Conqueror's reign. In response to the northern rebellions, William systematically devastated a vast area of northern England, destroying crops, livestock, and villages. The consequences were catastrophic and long-lasting.

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Context: Why Did William Harry the North?

The north of England had been a persistent source of resistance. The region had strong Viking and Danish connections and resented southern rule even before the Normans arrived.

The key trigger was the Rising of the North in 1069, when English rebels, supported by a Danish fleet, attacked York and destroyed both Norman castles, killing the garrisons.

William's previous responses — marching north, building castles, accepting submissions — had failed to end northern resistance permanently. He decided that only a campaign of total destruction would break the north's will to resist.

Key Term: The word "harrying" means to lay waste, to ravage and destroy. It implies a deliberate, systematic campaign of destruction rather than a single battle.

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What Happened?