Norman Conquest Books

About Norman Conquest

The Norman Conquest of England in 1066 stands as one of the most transformative events in British history. Led by William, Duke of Normandy—later known as William the Conqueror—the invasion was triggered by a disputed succession to the English throne following the death of Edward the Confessor. William claimed he had been promised the crown and that Harold Godwinson, the newly crowned English king, had broken an oath. The pivotal moment came at the Battle of Hastings on October 14, 1066, where William’s forces defeated Harold's army, who was killed in combat. William’s victory led to his coronation as King of England on Christmas Day 1066. The conquest radically altered England’s aristocracy, language, governance, and culture. Norman French became the language of the elite and significantly influenced the English language. Feudalism was introduced, redistributing land to Norman lords. The Domesday Book, a comprehensive survey of England's lands and resources, exemplifies the administrative changes that followed. Castles were constructed across the country to assert Norman dominance. The Norman Conquest reshaped England’s ties to continental Europe and had lasting effects on British identity, law, and governance. It marks the end of Anglo-Saxon rule and the beginning of a new Anglo-Norman era.