Question 1: Describe the events leading up to the Battle of Hastings in 1066. Include at least two significant actions taken by William the Conqueror before the battle.

Answer: William the Conqueror claimed the English throne after Harold Godwinson was crowned king. He gathered an invasion fleet and prepared an army to cross the English Channel. Before the battle, William also secured support from Norman nobles and built fortifications along the coast to prepare for invasion.

Question 2: Explain why the Battle of Hastings was a turning point in English history. What were its immediate and long-term impacts?

Answer: The Battle of Hastings resulted in William the Conqueror becoming king, ending Anglo-Saxon rule. Immediately, it led to Norman control of England. Long-term impacts included changes in land ownership, the introduction of Norman culture and language, and the strengthening of royal authority.

Question 3: Identify two ways in which William the Conqueror strengthened his control over England after 1066.

Answer: William built a network of castles across England to enforce his rule and commissioned the Domesday Book to assess landholdings and wealth for taxation.

Question 4: Compare the roles of Harold Godwinson and William the Conqueror in the events of 1066. How did their actions influence the outcome?

Answer: Harold Godwinson was the English king who faced William's invasion and fought at Hastings. His decision to defend England and his leadership in the battle led to his defeat. William's strategic planning, invasion, and decisive battle tactics led to his victory and the Norman conquest.

Question 5: Explain what the Domesday Book was and why it was important for William the Conqueror's rule.

Answer: The Domesday Book was a survey of landholdings and resources in England, created in 1086. It was important because it allowed William to assess taxes, control land ownership, and strengthen royal authority.

Question 6: Draw a simple sketch of a Norman castle as it might have looked during the late 11th century. Label at least three features that would be typical of Norman castles.

Answer: A correct sketch would include features such as thick stone walls, a central keep, and a surrounding moat. Labels might include 'keep,' 'curtain walls,' and 'moat.'

Question 7: Describe the differences between Anglo-Saxon and Norman governance systems that resulted from the conquest.

Answer: The Normans introduced a feudal system with William as the king granting land to lords who owed military service. Anglo-Saxon governance was more communal, with local assemblies and less centralized control. Norman rule was more hierarchical and controlled by the king.

Question 8: Identify and explain two cultural changes in England following the Norman Conquest.

Answer: Norman influence introduced French as the language of the court and legal system, affecting English vocabulary and governance. Additionally, Norman architecture, such as castles and cathedrals, became prominent across England.

Question 9: How did the Norman Conquest influence the development of the English language?

Answer: The conquest introduced a large number of French words into English, especially in law, government, and the church. Over time, this blending of languages contributed to the development of Middle English.