British History

The Domesday Book (1086)

• The Domesday Book was the result of a great survey by William I
• He sent officials to 13,418 places to find out who lived there and what they owned.
• The purpose of the survey was for tax collection, or possibly as a way of resolving disputed titles and lands.
• Domesday was the most complete record of any country at that time and continued to be consulted on legal and administrative matters into the Middle Ages.

The Middle Ages (1216-1347)

• During the thirteenth century, England and Scotland developed clearer self-identities.
• In England's case, this was as a result of the loss of most of her continental possessions which focused the monarchy's attention closer to home.
• There were large constitutional changes and the period saw the beginning of parliament to advise the king.
• Wales was conquered by the military campaigns of Edward I but his wars in France, Scotland and Ireland were less successful.