1060s

The 1060s refers to the decade from 1060 to 1069 CE, a period within the High Middle Ages characterized by political realignments, military campaigns, and reform movements across Europe, Asia, and the Mediterranean.

In Western Europe, the decade culminated in the Norman conquest of England in 1066, when William the Conqueror defeated Harold II at the Battle of Hastings and became king, initiating a rapid process of feudal consolidation and castle-building as Normans established control over England. In 1069–1070, William faced renewed resistance in northern England, leading to the Harrying of the North, a harsh campaign to subdue territories and assert royal authority.

In East Asia, the Song Dynasty implemented major administrative and financial reforms after 1069 under Chancellor Wang Anshi, known as the New Policies, aimed at strengthening state control, improving fiscal health, and boosting military readiness.

In the Byzantine Empire, the 1060s saw renewed military pressure from the Seljuk Turks in Anatolia. Emperor Romanos IV Diogenes, who reigned from 1068 to 1071, led campaigns against the Seljuks, and the decade set the stage for the later Battle of Manzikert in 1071.

Across regions, the decade contributed to ongoing processes of centralization and reform that would shape the political landscape of the late 11th century.

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