This man was the perhaps the greatest warrior of the
eleventh century and was perhaps the mightiest warrior of all time in the
fearless Varangian Guard - the toughest and most intelligent fighters in
centuries. Yet, Harold Godwinson beat him and killed him at
Stamford Bridge in 1066 - a fact I have known for 55 years. But it was only recently when I realised just what Harald Hardrada had achieved in his career.
Harold Godwinson must have marched his men to Hastings with the utmost
confidence after a victory which was as unbelievable as it was
unexpected.
