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What role did the Domesday Book play in Norman governance?

The Domesday Book was a comprehensive survey that helped William the Conqueror manage and tax his new kingdom.

After William the Conqueror became King of England in 1066, he needed a way to effectively control and administer his new territory. The Domesday Book, completed in 1086, was a crucial tool in this process. It provided a detailed record of land ownership, resources, and population across much of England. This allowed William to understand the wealth and assets of his kingdom, which was essential for efficient governance and taxation.

The survey was incredibly detailed, listing who owned each piece of land, what it was used for, and its value. This information was gathered by royal commissioners who travelled across the country, interviewing local lords and villagers. The data collected was then compiled into the Domesday Book, which served as a legal document that could be used to resolve disputes over land ownership.

One of the main purposes of the Domesday Book was to ensure that William could levy taxes effectively. By knowing exactly who owned what, and how much it was worth, the king could impose taxes more fairly and accurately. This was particularly important in a time when the economy was largely based on agriculture, and land was the primary source of wealth.

Additionally, the Domesday Book helped to consolidate Norman control over England. By documenting the holdings of the Anglo-Saxon nobility, William could redistribute land to his Norman followers, rewarding them for their loyalty and ensuring their support. This redistribution of land helped to establish a new social and political order, with the Normans firmly in control.

In summary, the Domesday Book was a vital tool for William the Conqueror, enabling him to manage his kingdom more effectively, impose taxes, and solidify Norman rule in England.

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