King Harold II, also known as Harold Godwinson, was the only English King to be crowned on the battlefield. His reign was short-lived, lasting only nine months from January to October 1066. Harold became King of England after the death of his predecessor, Edward the Confessor.

The crowning on the battlefield occurred during the Battle of Stamford Bridge, which took place on September 25, 1066. Harold had to quickly assemble his army and march north to defend his kingdom against an invasion led by the Norwegian king, Harald Hardrada. Despite being outnumbered, Harold's forces were able to defeat the Norwegians in a decisive victory.

However, Harold's triumph was short-lived as just a few days later, another invasion force led by William the Conqueror landed on the southern coast of England. This led to the famous Battle of Hastings on October 14, 1066, where Harold's army was defeated, and he was killed in battle. William the Conqueror went on to become the first Norman King of England.

The story of Harold II and the Battle of Hastings is a significant event in English history, marking the end of the Anglo-Saxon era and the beginning of Norman rule in England. The Norman Conquest had a lasting impact on English society, language, and culture.

If you would like to learn more about King Harold II and the Battle of Hastings, you can visit the following websites for further information:

• Britannica - Harold II
• English Heritage - Battle of Hastings

Overall, King Harold II's coronation on the battlefield is a unique and significant moment in English history, showcasing the tumultuous events that shaped the nation during the medieval period.

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