 From the Norman point of view, William the Conqueror was considered the legitimate heir to the realm (as explained in the Bayeux Tapestry), and the invasion was required to secure this against the usurpation of Harold Godwinson.In the years following the invasion to 1204, Normandy and England kept their close connection.This was in part secured by granting aristocrats lands in both domains, giving an incentive on all levels to maintain the union.