What were the key features of Norman Government? Starter:

William’s Style of Government Still used hide for working out tax obligations. Maintained the shire and the hundred. Witan keeps the same function (e.g. Danish threat of invasion in 1085 forces William to gather all the most important land holders in England like a large-scale Witan) Silver pennies and the royal treasury at Winchester remains. Don’t forget the changes! Reliefs used to ensure loyalty Feudalism Knight Service

The Destruction of the Earls? Earls had been too powerful under Edward (e.g. Godwin had forced Edward to return his land to him in 1051) Earldoms were reduced in size or completely phased out (Wessex and Mercia) Special powers given to Marcher earldoms taken away. Caused resentment e.g. 1075 Earls Revolt. Don’t forget the changes - William’s demesne made up 1/5 of the land – this extended his income! 25% of the land had been handed over to the Church.

Learning Task All Create a comparison diagram to show the key differences between an Anglo-Saxon and Norman Sheriff. “By the time of his death in 1088, William I had completely centralised power in the hands of the crown” – give 5 examples to support this statement. For Against All targets challenge – “By reducing the role of the earl, William was making rebellion less likely” – draw a table for and against this statement.

Saxon Norman Less important than earl Much more power than earls – answered to no one but king. If they failed in their role, they forfeited their land. Extra powers to punish rebellion against Norman rule. Lost some power to church e.g. trial by ordeal Lost some power when William introduced baronial and manorial courts. System of gathering army ran alongside knight service, which sheriffs were not in charge of. Involved in land grabs – no one could complain about them as they were too powerful. Entitled to share of taxes Kept some money paid in fines and geld tax Less important than earl Had to be careful not to upset earl. Used collective responsibility. Presided over shire court King appointed them Maintained law and order Maintained defence of shire and roads. Gathered fyrd when called upon by king. Collected taxes from all land

Royal demesne brought him income and gave him more control over land. Knights Tenants-in-chief had their own troops but they were loyal to the king. Without the crown, they could lose all their power/land. Control of land King owned all land, and used grants and forgeigts to ensure that followers remained loyal Feudal System Everyone who used land ultimately depended on the king. Church reforms King reformed church to give him more control – he could appoint bishops, control church decisions. Church land gave him more income. Domesday Knowledge is power- William knew how much money he could squeeze out of his kingdom. Symbolic of his power.