Question 1: Describe the events that led to William, Duke of Normandy, claiming the English throne in 1066.

Answer: William claimed that King Edward had promised him the throne, but Harold Godwinson was crowned king. William then prepared to invade England to assert his claim.

Question 2: Explain the significance of the Battle of Hastings and its outcome.

Answer: The Battle of Hastings was a decisive Norman victory where William defeated Harold Godwinson. It led to Norman control of England and the end of Anglo-Saxon rule.

Question 3: Identify and describe two ways in which William I changed England after the conquest.

Answer: William introduced the feudal system, granting land to Norman nobles, and commissioned the Domesday Book to assess landholdings and resources.

Question 4: Draw a simple sketch of a medieval castle structure, labeling features such as the keep, moat, and battlements.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a square or round keep at the center, surrounded by a moat, with battlements along the top of walls, and a gatehouse.

Question 5: Describe the impact of the Norman Conquest on the English language and culture.

Answer: The Norman Conquest introduced many French words into English, influencing vocabulary, law, and culture, leading to a blending of Norman and Anglo-Saxon traditions.

Question 6: Explain how the Normans used castles to control the newly conquered territory.

Answer: Normans built castles to defend their territory, control local populations, and project power over the land. Castles served as military bases and symbols of Norman authority.

Question 7: List three differences between Anglo-Saxon and Norman societies following 1066.

Answer: Normans introduced feudalism, changed land ownership to Norman nobles, and shifted cultural practices toward French influences, contrasting with Anglo-Saxon traditions.

Question 8: Describe the purpose of the Domesday Book and how it was used by William I.

Answer: The Domesday Book was a survey of landholdings and resources in England, used by William to assess taxes and organize control over the land.