911: Viking raiders, led by Rollo, establish the Duchy of Normandy in northern France.
10th Century: The Normans assimilate into French culture, adopting Christianity and the French language. They develop a strong military force and establish a powerful feudal system.
1066: William, Duke of Normandy, claims the English throne after the death of King Edward the Confessor, leading to the Norman invasion of England.
Battle of Hastings (October 14, 1066): William defeats the English forces led by King Harold II at the Battle of Hastings, marking the beginning of the Norman conquest of England.
Crowning of William the Conqueror (Christmas, 1066): William is crowned King of England in Westminster Abbey, becoming the first Norman monarch of England.
Over the next few years, the Normans consolidate their power in England, introducing significant changes to the political, social, and cultural fabric of the country. They establish a centralized government, build castles, and introduce French customs, language, and legal systems, which have had a lasting impact on English society and history.