The Norman period in the history of England begins in 1066 with the conquest of the country by Duke of Normandy William the Conqueror. This event radically changed English society, politics, and culture, laying the foundations for the formation of the feudal system and significantly influencing the subsequent history of England. The Norman conquest marked the transition from the Anglo-Saxon monarchy to the Norman dynasty, bringing with it numerous changes in both domestic and foreign policy.

The Norman Conquest

The conquest of England by William the Conqueror began with the Battle of Hastings on October 14, 1066, where the forces of Anglo-Saxon King Harold II were defeated. Harold was killed, and William subsequently proclaimed himself king of England. His coronation took place at Westminster Abbey on December 25, 1066.

The Norman conquest led to radical changes in the social and political structure of England. William began the redistribution of land, confiscating the estates of the Anglo-Saxon nobility and handing them over to Norman barons and knights, which laid the groundwork for the development of feudalism in England. The new nobility brought with them the culture and customs of Normandy, which significantly impacted the lives of the English people.

The Feudal System

One of the main consequences of the Norman conquest was the establishment of the feudal system in England. William divided the lands of the country among his supporters, demanding loyalty and military service from them. This meant that the king was the supreme owner of all land, and the feudal lords who received lands were obliged to provide military contingents and follow the king in military campaigns.

The subordination of the nobility to the king became the basis for control over the country. The vassalage system, which allowed each feudal lord to be a vassal of the king and grant lands to his vassals, solidified the power of William and his descendants. The feudal structure became an important part of the political and social life of England in the subsequent centuries.

The Domesday Book

In 1086, at William's order, the "Domesday Book" was compiled, which became the first comprehensive land registry in England. The purpose of creating the book was to describe all land holdings, their sizes, incomes, and owners for more effective taxation and administration. This document provided William and his government with a complete picture of land distribution in England and ensured stricter control over the country's economy.

The "Domesday Book" also helped to reinforce the feudal system, as it recorded all land holdings and their owners, which helped avoid property disputes and strengthen the power of the king and his administration.

The Church and the State

The Norman conquest also had a significant impact on the English church. William replaced Anglo-Saxon bishops with Norman and French clergy, ensuring his control over the church. The Norman kings actively intervened in church affairs, appointing bishops and controlling church lands.

Despite this, William the Conqueror supported the papacy and church reforms taking place in Europe at the time. He founded numerous monasteries and supported the construction of churches, contributing to the strengthening of Christianity and religious life in the country.

Architecture and Culture

One of the most noticeable changes brought by the Normans was the development of architecture. Huge stone castles and cathedrals began to be built in England, reflecting the feudal order and the power of the Norman rulers. The most famous examples of Norman architecture include Westminster Abbey, the Tower of London, and many other fortresses and churches that still adorn England today.

Norman culture also influenced the language and art of England. Although the main language of the nobility remained French, over time there was a blending of Anglo-Saxon and French languages, ultimately leading to the formation of Middle English. The French language long remained the language of the royal court, but Anglo-Saxon traditions continued to exist among the peasantry and lower classes.

The Norman Dynasty

William the Conqueror became the founder of the Norman dynasty, which ruled England until the end of the 12th century. After his death in 1087, his elder son William II Rufus inherited the English throne. His reign was marked by conflicts with the barons and the church, as well as military campaigns in Scotland and Wales.

After the death of William II in 1100, his younger brother Henry I ascended the throne. Henry continued the policy of strengthening royal authority and reforming the administration. He also strengthened ties with Normandy by marrying Matilda, the daughter of the Scottish king, which allowed him to enhance his influence in Northern England and Scotland.

Troubles and Civil War

After the death of Henry I in 1135, troubles known as "The Anarchy" began. This was caused by a power struggle for the throne between his daughter Matilda and her cousin Stephen of Blois. This period of civil war lasted until 1153, when the parties agreed that Matilda's son, Henry Plantagenet, would become king after Stephen's death.

Thus, the Norman dynasty gradually gave way to the new Plantagenet dynasty, which continued to rule England. Despite this, the Norman period had a tremendous influence on the further development of the English monarchy, legislation, and culture.

Conclusion

The Norman period in the history of England was a time of significant changes that affected all aspects of life in the country. The conquest by William the Conqueror led to the establishment of the feudal system, land redistribution, and the introduction of Norman nobility. The church and state became more closely interconnected, and the cultural and linguistic influences of Normandy continued to develop over the centuries.

The Norman conquest laid the foundations for a strong monarchy that was able to withstand the challenges of subsequent centuries. The influence of this period can be traced in architecture, language, and political institutions, which continue to be part of England's cultural heritage to this day.