Who Was Hereward?

Hereward the Wake was an Anglo-Saxon noble linked to resistance in East Anglia.

He became famous for fighting against Norman rule.

Over time, stories about him became legendary.

The Isle of Ely

Hereward’s rebellion was based at Ely.

Ely was surrounded by marshland and water.

This made it difficult for Norman soldiers to attack.

The Rebel Camp

The rebels included:

• Anglo-Saxon fighters
• Local supporters
• Some surviving nobles

Edgar Aetheling may also have joined the rebellion for a time.

William Attacks Ely

William eventually attacked Ely in 1071.

The Normans built causeways across the marshes to reach the rebels.

The rebellion was defeated.

Some rebels were killed or imprisoned.

Hereward may have escaped, although historians are not certain.