📕 Chapter 3: A Long and Illustrious History
3.1.6 The Norman Conquest 1066
3 paragraphs · 6 questions
In 1066, an invasion led by William, the Duke of Normandy (in what is now northern France), defeated the English king Harold II at the Battle of Hastings. Harold was killed during the battle — according to tradition, he was shot in the eye with an arrow. William became King of England and is known as William the Conqueror.
Key Facts
- William, Duke of Normandy, invaded in 1066
- Harold II was killed at the Battle of Hastings
- William became known as William the Conqueror
The Norman Conquest was the last successful foreign invasion of England. William introduced the feudal system, where the king owned all the land and granted it to his followers in return for military service. He also ordered the creation of the Domesday Book in 1086, a detailed survey of all the land and property in England.
Key Facts
- Last successful foreign invasion of England
- William introduced the feudal system
- Domesday Book created in 1086 — survey of land and property
The Normans built castles across England to control the population, including the Tower of London. They also built great cathedrals and churches. Norman French became the language of the court and the ruling class, while ordinary people continued to speak English. Over time, the two languages merged, greatly enriching the English vocabulary.
Key Facts
- Normans built castles including the Tower of London
- Norman French was the language of the ruling class
- English and French eventually merged, enriching English vocabulary
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