Which of the following was NOT listed as a reason for Rufus's victory?

• A. The Pope's influence
• B. His greater support
• C. Barons wanting a single ruler
• D. The Anglo-Saxon support

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is understanding what actually helped Rufus win control after his father's death. The strongest factors are the support he could muster from key nobles, the desire of the barons for a single, strong ruler to avoid constant feuding, and the backing of many Anglo-Saxons who preferred a decisive, centralized authority. These elements show how loyalty, stability, and broad legitimacy—especially from powerful landowners and the native population—gave Rufus the edge.

The pope’s influence isn’t a factor that fits this specific turnout. In this particular English succession context, papal backing didn’t drive the outcome, whereas local feudal support and the push for unified rule did.