The Norman Conquest

In 1066, a duke from Normandy in France crossed the English Channel with a big army. His name was William, and he believed he should be the King of England. He fought a great battle and won. William became King William I, also called William the Conqueror. The Norman Conquest changed England forever. It brought new laws, a new language, and a new way of life.

Why William Invaded

When the English king Edward died in January 1066, there was no clear person to take over. Harold Godwinson, a powerful English lord, was crowned king. But William of Normandy said that Edward had promised him the throne. William gathered a huge army and fleet of ships. He sailed across the English Channel to take the crown by force.

A New England

After winning the Battle of Hastings, William took control of England. He gave land to his Norman followers and built strong stone castles across the country. He ordered a big survey of all the land and people called the Domesday Book. The Normans spoke French, and many French words became part of the English language. England was never the same again.

Fun Facts

• The Bayeux Tapestry, a giant embroidered cloth, tells the story of the Norman Conquest in pictures. It is about 230 feet long!
• William built the Tower of London, which still stands today.
• Many English words for food, like 'beef' and 'pork,' come from the French that the Normans brought.

Did You Know?

The Domesday Book that William ordered is one of the most amazing records in history. It listed almost every piece of land, animal, and person in England!