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Explore the era of William the Conqueror, who transformed England with his castle-building program and the introduction of Norman feudalism. His reign saw the overhaul of the English nobility, the creation of the New Forest, and the commissioning of the Domesday Book, which redefined land ownership and governance. William's economic management and the division of his territories upon his death left an enduring legacy.
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William built strategic castles, such as the Tower of London, to secure his rule in England
Initial Designs
William's castles were initially constructed with earthworks and wooden motte-and-bailey designs
Later Developments
Over time, William's castles evolved into stone fortresses
William introduced Norman feudal practices, such as subinfeudation and military service, to restructure the Anglo-Saxon system of land tenure
William's conquest led to the replacement of the traditional Anglo-Saxon elite with Norman and foreign nobles loyal to him
William redistributed land to his loyal nobles, often amalgamating smaller English estates into larger Norman holdings
William's love for hunting led to the establishment of the New Forest, which was previously underpopulated and used for marginal agriculture
William maintained separate legal and administrative systems for England and Normandy, with England preserving its unique system of writs and charters
To effectively govern his territories, William frequently traveled between England and Normandy, delegating authority during his absences
The Domesday Book, commissioned by William in 1085, provided a detailed record of landholdings and feudal obligations in England for efficient taxation and documentation of the feudal hierarchy
William retained the Danegeld tax, originally used to fund defense against Viking invasions, and adapted it for widespread use during times of need
William had different monetary policies for England and Normandy, with English coinage being highly regulated and re-minted regularly for purity
Through confiscation of English estates and control of the royal demesne, William became the preeminent secular landowner in England, with vast economic resources at his disposal
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Significance of 1066 for English history
William's ascension began Norman influence, transforming governance, culture, and language.
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Role of castles in Norman England
Castles served as military bases, suppressed revolts, and symbolized Norman authority.
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Changes to land tenure by William
Introduced Norman feudalism, replacing hide-based system with subinfeudation and knight service.
