Why the Normans Invaded England in 1066

The Norman invasion of 1066 stemmed from a succession crisis and competing claims:

• Death of Edward the Confessor (Jan 1066): No direct heir; English nobility elected Harold Godwinson king.
• William of Normandy's claim: Argued Edward promised him the throne; viewed Harold as usurper.
• Norman baron support: Knights sought land and wealth in England.

William defeated Harold at the Battle of Hastings (Oct 1066) and was crowned Christmas Day. The conquest brought feudalism, French linguistic influence (shaping Middle English), and the common law system—profoundly reshaping English society, language, and governance.