Norman conquest. Feudal England

What year did the Norman Conquest take place?

The Norman Conquest took place in 1066.

Who led the Norman Conquest of England?

Duke William of Normandy, later known as William the Conqueror.

Which battle marked the Normans' victory over the Anglo-Saxons?

The Battle of Hastings in 1066.

Who was the Anglo-Saxon king defeated by William at the Battle of Hastings?

King Harold II.

What were the main reasons for the Norman Conquest?

• Dispute over the English throne: William claimed that Edward the Confessor promised him the throne.

• Weakness of the Anglo-Saxon state due to Viking raids and internal conflicts.

What social changes did the Normans bring to England?

• Replacement of the Anglo-Saxon elite with Norman lords.

• Creation of a new social hierarchy dominated by the king and Norman nobility.

What was the Domesday Book, and why was it important?

The Domesday Book was a survey of land and resources ordered by William in 1086 to organize taxation and administration.

How did the Norman Conquest affect the English language?

French became the language of the aristocracy and administration, influencing the development of the English language.

How did the Normans influence architecture in England?

They introduced the Romanesque style, building castles (e.g., the Tower of London) and churches for defense and administration.

What was the military impact of the Norman Conquest?

Strengthened the king's army with new military technology and built fortifications to secure control.

How did the Norman Conquest change England's international relations?

England became closely tied to Normandy and Europe, increasing its influence and involvement in continental affairs.

Why was the Norman Conquest considered a turning point in English history?

It marked the end of Anglo-Saxon rule, introduced feudalism, and reshaped English society, language, and governance.

What were the three main social classes in Feudal England?

1. Clergy: Controlled land and influenced spiritual and educational life.

2. Knights: Served the king and lords in exchange for land; the main military force.

3. Peasants: Majority of the population, including free peasants (villains) and serfs.

What is "feudal dependence"?

Feudal dependence was the hierarchical system where vassals served their lords in exchange for land, and peasants worked on the land owned by their feudal lords.

How did William the Conqueror strengthen central authority?

He introduced the Domesday Book, which helped manage resources and ensured loyalty from feudal lords.

What were the key economic characteristics of Feudal England?

• Manors: Self-sufficient economic units providing food, clothing, and tools.

• Limited role of towns: Small and focused on markets and crafts.

• Agriculture: The primary source of income, with peasants paying taxes and working for their lords.

What were the positive impacts of feudalism in England?

• Unified the country and strengthened royal power.

• Established a common English identity.

What were the negative impacts of feudalism in England?

• Limited economic development due to natural economy dominance.

• Restricted social mobility and reinforced inequality.

• Preserved medieval worldviews, delaying progress.

What role did the Church play in Feudal England?

The Church was a central institution controlling land, providing education, and shaping moral and spiritual life. Monasteries served as cultural and intellectual hubs.

What cultural traditions emerged during Feudal England?

• Chivalry: Knightly customs, tournaments, and a code of honor.

• Architecture: Development of castles and churches as symbols of power and piety.

When did changes to feudalism in England begin, and what caused them?

By the 13th century, changes occurred due to urban growth, increased trade, and centralization of royal power.