William the Conqueror (reigned 1066–1087)

In 1066 William, Duke of Normandy, invaded England and defeated King Harold II at the Battle of Hastings. Harold was killed during the battle — according to tradition, by an arrow. William was subsequently crowned King of England at Westminster Abbey on Christmas Day 1066.

The Norman Conquest was one of the most significant events in English history. It brought England into close contact with mainland Europe and fundamentally changed the country's culture, language, and ruling class.

After the conquest, William introduced the feudal system to England. Under this system, the king owned all the land and granted it to barons and knights in return for military service. Ordinary people worked the land for those above them in the hierarchy.

William also began building the Tower of London as a symbol of Norman power. It served as a royal residence, a fortress, and later as a prison.

In 1086 William ordered a comprehensive survey of England to be carried out, recording who owned what land and what it was worth. This survey became known as the Domesday Book. It was an extraordinary administrative achievement for its time and helped William understand and tax the wealth of his new kingdom.

The Domesday Book is one of the most famous historical documents in England and is still preserved today.