The Norman Kings of England

Who were the Normans?

England was ruled by Saxon kings from 1042 until 1066. In 1066 England was conquered by William of Normandy. England was now part of a continental 'empire' in Europe.

Where did the Normans come from?

Normandy is in the northern part of France. At this time, Normandy was a semi-independent state, ruled by a duke. The Normans had achieved great success in conquering Sicily, and fighting for and against the Byzantine Empire. England was another of their conquests.

Who were the Norman rulers?

The Norman kings were also dukes of Normandy. They were Norman-French rather than English. Many Norman lords held lands in England and Normandy.

Who did the Normans trade with?

After the Norman Conquest, England became part of a continental 'empire'. Trade between England and France increased, and England absorbed many aspects of Norman-French culture.

Why were the Normans significant?

These are some of the ways in which the Normans were significant.

• ❖ Under the Normans, England became closer to continental Europe. Trade with France increased, and the English adopted elements of Norman-French culture.
• ❖ Many aspects of Norman-French culture remain in Britain today - including elements of the law and government, and language.
• ❖ The descendents of the first Norman king, William I, have ruled England ever since the conquest. Queen Elizabeth II is a descendent of William I.