AngloNormans

The Anglo-Normans were the Norman inhabitants of England and its ruling class following the Norman Conquest of 1066. These were descendants of Vikings who had settled in Normandy, France, and adopted French language and customs. Upon their conquest of England under William the Conqueror, they established a new aristocracy, replacing the Anglo-Saxon elite.

This new ruling class brought about significant changes to English society, language, and culture. They introduced feudalism in a more structured form, changed land ownership patterns, and built numerous castles and cathedrals in the Romanesque architectural style. The English language underwent substantial transformation with the infusion of a vast number of Norman French words, particularly in areas of law, government, and cuisine. The Anglo-Norman language itself developed as a distinct dialect spoken by the aristocracy.

Over time, the distinction between the Norman rulers and the native English population blurred. Intermarriage and cultural assimilation led to a unified English identity by the late 12th century. The term Anglo-Norman is therefore often used to describe the period of Norman rule and the distinct cultural and linguistic phase that characterized England for several generations after the conquest. Their impact on the development of England as a nation is considered profound and enduring.