oct 14, 1066 - Battle of Hastings

Description:

William I came to power. The Norman Conquest introduced:
- trial by battle (God decides the result)
- the Feudal System (more rigid than old system)
- the Domesday Book (for better knowledge & tax)
- castles (to intimidate Anglo-Saxons)

The Conquest changed:
- the Wergeld & Botgeld so they weren't paid to the victim, but to the King (the King's Peace)
- rights of women (ruled by men, not allowed on jury or as witness in court)
- the control of sheriffs so it was more central

William's more central rule and the earldoms being split up attempted to combat the issue of over-mighty subjects. However, over-mighty subjects were a huge problem up until Tudor times.