The famous battle fought in 1066 that changed the course of English history was the Battle of Hastings. This pivotal conflict occurred on October 14, when the Norman forces led by Duke William of Normandy clashed with the English army commanded by King Harold II. The battle was a decisive victory for William, who would later become known as William the Conqueror. With Harold's death and subsequent Norman victory, the battle marked the end of Anglo-Saxon rule in England and initiated a new era of Norman dominance. The resulting changes in governance, culture, and language significantly shaped English society and history thereafter.