January 5, 1066
Death of Edward the Confessor
The Norman Conquest of 1066
The Norman Conquest of England in 1066 was one of the most significant events in British history. Led by William, Duke of Normandy (later known as William the Conqueror), this invasion and subsequent conquest of England had far-reaching consequences that shaped the country's language, culture, and governance for centuries to come.
Background
The events leading to the Norman Conquest began with the death of the childless King Edward the Confessor in January 1066. This led to a succession crisis, with three main contenders for the English throne:
- Harold Godwinson, Earl of Wessex
- Harald Hardrada, King of Norway
- William, Duke of Normandy
Timeline of Key Events
January 6, 1066
Harold Godwinson crowned King of England
September 20, 1066
Battle of Fulford: Harald Hardrada defeats Northern Earls
September 25, 1066
Battle of Stamford Bridge: Harold defeats Harald Hardrada
September 28, 1066
William of Normandy lands in England
October 14, 1066
Battle of Hastings: William defeats Harold
December 25, 1066
William crowned King of England
The Battle of Hastings
The decisive battle of the Norman Conquest took place on October 14, 1066, near the town of Hastings in southern England. Despite the Anglo-Saxon army's strong defensive position on Senlac Hill, the Norman forces, led by William, emerged victorious after a day-long battle. King Harold was killed during the fighting, traditionally believed to have been shot in the eye with an arrow.
Consequences of the Norman Conquest
The Norman Conquest had profound and lasting effects on England:
- Introduction of feudalism and the Norman aristocracy
- Construction of numerous castles and cathedrals
- Significant changes to the English language, with the introduction of many French words
- Reorganization of the Church in England
- Creation of the Domesday Book, a comprehensive survey of England
- Closer political ties between England and continental Europe
Legacy
The Norman Conquest marked the last successful invasion of England and ushered in a new era of Norman rule. Its impact on English society, culture, and language was immense and can still be felt today, nearly a thousand years later.