The Domesday Book was a comprehensive land survey commissioned by William the Conqueror in 1085, documenting property ownership, resources, and population across England following the Norman Conquest. This crucial historical document helped establish Norman control over the Anglo-Saxon population and the feudal system.
Key aspects:
- Created to maintain accurate tax records and property ownership
- Conducted by Norman royal commissioners who surveyed 13,000 houses
- Demonstrated complete Norman control over English lands
- Helped prevent rebellions through fair taxation
- Established a detailed record of land, property, and resources
- Showed the transition from Anglo-Saxon to Norman landowners