Question 1: Describe the events that led to William the Conqueror claiming the English throne in 1066.

Answer: William claimed that he had been promised the throne by King Edward, and he argued that Harold Godwinson had sworn to support him. William prepared an invasion, leading to the Battle of Hastings.

Question 2: Explain the significance of the Battle of Hastings in 1066.

Answer: The Battle of Hastings was a decisive victory for William the Conqueror, which led to him becoming the King of England and marked the start of Norman rule.

Question 3: List three ways in which William the Conqueror changed England after his victory.

Answer: He built castles to control the land, replaced English nobles with Normans, and introduced the Domesday Book for tax purposes.

Question 4: Describe the purpose of the Domesday Book and its importance.

Answer: The Domesday Book was a survey of England’s land and resources, created to help William tax his new kingdom efficiently and establish control.

Question 5: Explain what the Bayeux Tapestry depicts and why it is important for historians.

Answer: The Bayeux Tapestry shows the events leading up to the Norman Conquest, including the Battle of Hastings. It is important because it provides a visual record of the events.

Question 6: Sketch a Norman castle and label three key features that helped defend it.

Answer: A large square or circular stone keep, thick defensive walls, and a fortified gatehouse. The sketch should show these features clearly.

Question 7: Describe how the Normans changed the landscape of England through their building projects.

Answer: They built many castles and cathedrals, which altered the landscape and introduced new architectural styles.

Question 8: Compare the laws and governance of England before and after the Norman Conquest.

Answer: Before the conquest, England was governed by Anglo-Saxon laws and kings. After, Norman laws were introduced, and William replaced many Anglo-Saxon leaders with Normans.

Question 9: Identify two challenges William faced in establishing control over England after 1066.

Answer: He faced resistance from Anglo-Saxon nobles and uprisings by local populations who wanted to remain under Anglo-Saxon rule.

Question 10: Discuss the long-term impact of the Norman Conquest on English society and culture.

Answer: It led to the fusion of Norman and Anglo-Saxon cultures, changed the language, introduced new laws and customs, and strengthened the power of the monarchy.