The Battle of Hastings was fought on the morning of Saturday, 14th October 1066 and resulted in Norman control of England. The victory and subsequent Norman Conquest was pivotal for several reasons. It largely removed the native ruling class, replacing it with a foreign, French-speaking monarchy and aristocracy and transformed English language and culture.
Subjugation under rulers originating in France linked England closely with Europe and lessened Scandinavian influence. Thus the stage was set for a rivalry with France that would continue for more than eight centuries, and many would say continues to this day.
Almost 942 years later to the day, the battlefield again rang to the clash of metal on metal as I watched the re-enactment of one of the most significant battles in history.
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