Which action is listed as a good thing Tostig did as Earl of Northumbria?

• A. Maintained law and order
• B. Used his own money to benefit himself
• C. Bribed the rich, or faced accusations of being a bandit
• D. Threatened government with his mismanagement of power

Answer: (A)

Maintaining law and order is the best answer because the role of an earl in Anglo-Saxon England was to uphold the king’s authority by enforcing justice, keeping peace in the region, and protecting people and property. When an earl effectively keeps courts functioning, punishes criminals fairly, and reduces unrest, it supports stability, trade, and daily life across the shire. The other options describe self-serving, corrupt, or destabilizing behavior, which would undermine governance rather than improve it. So, keeping law and order fits the positive outcome expected of an effective north-country ruler.