The Norman Conquest refers to the invasion and subsequent occupation of England by the Normans in 1066. Led by William the Conqueror, the Duke of Normandy, this event began with the Battle of Hastings, where William defeated King Harold II. The conquest significantly altered the political landscape of England. Following the conquest, the Normans established a new ruling class and introduced feudalism. They built castles and cathedrals, influencing English architecture and culture. The Domesday Book, a comprehensive survey of land and resources, was created to assess the wealth of the kingdom, marking a pivotal moment in English history.