Normans

The Norman conquest of England in 1066 changed and shaped the history of England like no other event. The story of the Norman Conquest is primarily the story of one man’s success: William of Normandy.

The Anglo-Saxons migrated to Britain around 400 AD. Soon they were dominant throughout England and by 900 AD they had established four powerful kingdoms.

When Edward the Confessor died in 1066, there were four men who could claim to be the next King of England. Three of these claimants were prepared to fight for their right to be king.

Edward the Confessor’s death and Harold’s accession to the throne in January 1066 led to three major battles. After the final battle at Hastings in October England had a new king, William of Normandy.

William’s victory over Harold only started the Norman conquest of England. It was military power that beat the Anglo-Saxon forces but after 1066 William had to use a range of methods to keep control.

To secure their hold over England the Normans introduced many changes to people’s daily lives. The justice and tax systems of England were amended to secure Norman power in England.

An extensive network of castles allowed the Normans to secure their power in England. The small force of invaders used these large fortresses to impose their authority over a whole country.

Christianity was a very important aspect of life in England and Normandy. The rule of the Normans in England brought significant changes in the churches and monasteries.

In your History GCSE, it is important that you not only have good subject knowledge, but have the skills to apply this knowledge to exam questions.