The battle fought in 1066 in England was the Battle of Hastings. This pivotal confrontation occurred on October 14, when William, the Duke of Normandy, defeated King Harold II of England. The battle marked the beginning of Norman rule in England as William claimed the throne and significantly altered the country's social, political, and cultural landscape. The defeat of Harold led to the establishment of the feudal system and the introduction of Norman customs, language, and governance in England.