The Normans
Definition
French-speaking people from Normandy who conquered England in 1066 under William the Conqueror and fundamentally changed English language, law, and culture.
Explanation
The Norman Conquest of 1066 is one of the most significant events in English history. William the Conqueror defeated King Harold Godwinson at the Battle of Hastings and became King of England. The Normans brought French language, feudalism, and Norman-French culture to England, profoundly influencing the development of English law, institutions, and language. English absorbed thousands of French words and the feudal system became the foundation of medieval society. The Normans built magnificent castles and cathedrals that still stand today. This conquest shaped everything from the monarchy to the common law system that persists in the UK.
Why this matters for your test
The Norman Conquest and its consequences are central to British history and the foundation of many British legal and governmental institutions covered in the test.
Source: Life in the UK Test (2025)