The significant eleventh-century event that marked the beginning of the Norman influence on England was the Norman Conquest of 1066. This pivotal moment followed the death of King Edward the Confessor, which led to a succession crisis. William, Duke of Normandy, claimed the English throne and invaded England, culminating in the decisive Battle of Hastings. William's victory over King Harold II resulted in the establishment of Norman rule in England. The Conquest transformed English society, politics, and culture, introducing feudalism, reshaping the aristocracy, and significantly influencing the English language and architecture.