The Norman Conquest is of paramount importance in the history of Britain, connecting Britain more closely with the continent by decreasing Scandinavian influence and introducing a Norman French aristocracy. Britain became a powerful monarchy with an elaborate system of government, and the English language grew exponentially after the French language was adopted.

The Norman Conquest is also considered the last victorious conquest of England, although some historians believe the Bloodless Revolution of 1688, the overthrowing of James II by Dutchman William of Orange, was the most recent successful conquest.

The Vikings invaded England in 1066. The army of King Harold of England fought against the invaders at the Battle of Stamford Bridge. The Vikings were defeated, but the battle left the Anglo-Saxons in a weakened state. Meanwhile, William the Conqueror of Normandy assembled a vast fleet and army and invaded England, where the Battle of Hastings was fought. Harold was killed and his army fled.

As sole pretender to the throne, William marched to London, with little resistance, and was crowned in Westminster Abbey. William’s reign endured for many years, notwithstanding the revolts, uprisings and attempted invasions by Scots and Danes. The Norman French conquerors and the native population intermarried and became hard to distinguish by the 12th Century, especially after the plague killed most English nobles.