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1066: The Year That Changed Everything

Season 1
Experience the drama of a dynamic year in medieval history centering on the Norman Conquest of England. Taking you from the shores of Scandinavia and France to the battlefields of the English countryside, this series plunges you into a world of fierce Viking warriors, powerful noble families, politically charged marriages, tense succession crises, epic military invasions, and more.
20206 episodesTV-PG
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Episodes

  1. S1 E1 - The Norman Conquest through History
    March 26, 2020
    34min
    TV-PG
    What makes 1066 such a pivotal year in the history of Western civilization? How has the meaning of the Norman Conquest been debated and interpreted over time? And how did two weddings lay the groundwork for this tumultuous moment? Find out in this episode that provides crucial information for grasping the Norman Conquest. #History
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  2. S1 E2 - England and Normandy before the Conquest
    March 26, 2020
    34min
    TV-PG
    Take a closer look at the chaotic half-century between 1016 and 1066, when power was up for grabs. Two figures were crucial during this time: Edward the Confessor, who succeeded to the English throne in 1042 but was dominated by the powerful Godwinsons, and William the Bastard, who brought the Norman nobles under control and then set his sights on conquering England.
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  3. S1 E3 - The Succession Crisis in England
    March 26, 2020
    34min
    TV-PG
    Investigate how the relationship between Edward the Confessor and William the Bastard put England and Normandy on a collision course when the childless King Edward had to plan the succession to the English throne. You'll focus on Edward's plans for succession, meet the contenders to the throne, and learn how Harold Godwinson achieved victory at the Battle of Stamford Bridge.
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  4. S1 E4 - The Battle of Hastings
    March 26, 2020
    32min
    TV-PG
    Revisit one of the most important moments in English history: the Battle of Hastings, after which the island nation, and the entire Western world, would never be the same. Dr. Paxton investigates some intriguing mysteries and controversies about the invasion; explains the tactics of medieval warfare; and provides a blow-by-blow account of the battle.
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  5. S1 E5 - Completing the Conquest
    March 26, 2020
    35min
    TV-PG
    It took several years for William the Conqueror to consolidate the gains he made at the Battle of Hastings. Learn how he used a combination of diplomacy and clever military tactics to take control of London without a fierce battle; how he won over the church; how he responded to various rebellions in the northern part of the country; and more.
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  6. S1 E6 - The Aftermath of the Conquest
    March 26, 2020
    37min
    TV-PG
    Why does the Norman Conquest matter? Take a closer look at the relationship between the Normans and the English in the generations immediately following the conquest, with a focus on the myriad ways that Norman and English culture intermingled. You'll realize the ultimate legacy of this vital year: the transition of England into the European mainstream.
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Details

More info

Subtitles
None available
Producers
The Great Courses
Cast
Jennifer Paxton
Studio
The Great Courses
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