Question 1: Explain the significance of the Battle of Hastings in 1066. Why was it a turning point for England?

Answer: The Battle of Hastings was significant because William the Conqueror defeated King Harold II, leading to Norman control of England. It marked the end of Anglo-Saxon rule and began Norman influence, affecting language, culture, and governance.

Question 2: Describe three ways William the Conqueror changed the governance of England after 1066.

Answer: William introduced the Domesday Book to assess landholdings and taxes, replaced Anglo-Saxon aristocracy with Normans, and centralized royal authority through new castles and feudal reforms.

Question 3: Identify and explain two reasons why the Normans built castles across England after the conquest.

Answer: Castles were built to defend Norman control and suppress rebellion, and to demonstrate Norman power and authority over the local population.

Question 4: Compare the Anglo-Saxon and Norman systems of land ownership and how they affected society.

Answer: In the Anglo-Saxon system, land was owned by local lords and governed by kinship. The Normans introduced a feudal system where all land was owned by the king, with lords holding land from the king in exchange for loyalty and military service, leading to a more hierarchical society.

Question 5: Write a paragraph explaining how the Norman Conquest influenced the English language.

Answer: The Norman Conquest introduced a large number of French words into English, especially in law, government, art, and cuisine. Over time, this blending enriched the language and contributed to the development of Middle English.

Question 6: Draw a simple map sketch showing the approximate location of the Battle of Hastings. Label the key areas involved, such as Hastings and London.

Answer: A correct sketch would show the south-eastern coast of England with Hastings marked near the coast, London further north, and a line indicating the movement of William’s army from the coast towards London.

Question 7: Describe the events that led to William claiming the English throne before the Battle of Hastings.

Answer: William claimed that he had been promised the throne by Edward the Confessor, the previous king. When Harold Godwinson took the throne instead, William prepared to invade England to assert his claim, leading to the Battle of Hastings.

Question 8: Explain the long-term impact of the Norman Conquest on the social structure of England.

Answer: The Norman Conquest resulted in a more rigid feudal society, with a clear hierarchy dominated by Normans. It also led to the displacement of Anglo-Saxon elites, increased Norman influence in governance, and changes in land ownership that shaped medieval English society.