1038-1046
I have just received word that my father has been killed while returning from the holy land. I am now the Duke of Normandy at the age of seven. My tutors say that I will be the greatest leader in Europe; I believe them to be wrong. I have had many assassinations attempts on my life; I believe that the other Norman Lords do not recognize me as a leader. Now I am 18, the other lords have seen fit to rise against me to test my strength. Today I crushed the rebellion and have finally taken control of my country.
1050-1060
I have finally found a bride. Her name is Matilda of Flanders and this marriage will mean the union of our two countries. Over the past few years, I have managed to quell all existing rebellions and become a powerful lord. Once the rebellious lords were dealt with I took their land and gave it to the loyal lords and I now have completely loyal vassals.
1060-1066 (Jan.-July)
I have recently had the King of England claim me to be his heir to the throne and become the next king. This has lightened my spirits and increased my influence in other lands. I have heard word from England that three people claim the crown to England. Myself from a direct vow by King Edward, The English by right of tradition, and the Danish warrior Harold Haarada by marriage. Later I was informed that one of my lords had Harold Godwinson, whom I believed to be carrying a message, in their prison. I had him delivered to me and swear fealty to me for saving his life. After he left for England I realized that he did not give me any message at all. Early this year of 1066, King Edward died from sickness, and Harold Godwinson was crowned king instead of me claiming that the king changed his mind. I have been protesting for many weeks now giving witnesses to the fact that I was the rightful king. I now know that this must be settled by war and not mere lawyers. I have heard reports that Harold Haraada, is creating an army to invade and I must do the same myself. My army will be ready by august and Harold’s by September. I must claim my rightful throne before lesser claims reach the throne first. I will not give up until I have my rightful position as King of England.