What significant event occurred in 1066?

The significant event that occurred in 1066 is known as the Norman Conquest. This pivotal moment in British history began with the Battle of Hastings, where William, the Duke of Normandy, defeated King Harold II of England. The victory allowed William to become King of England and led to profound changes in English society, culture, and governance.

The Norman Conquest is crucial as it marked the end of Anglo-Saxon rule in England and the beginning of Norman dominance, which introduced feudalism, shifted the English language and culture, and resulted in the construction of many iconic castles and cathedrals. This event reshaped the political landscape and had lasting implications on the development of the nation.

The other options refer to events that occurred in different time periods, making them unrelated to the year 1066. For example, the signing of the Treaty of Versailles happened in 1919 following World War I, the Great Fire of London took place in 1666, and the establishment of the Commonwealth occurred in the 17th century, specifically in 1649. Each of these events holds significance in their own right, but they do not pertain to the year that was pivotal for the Norman Conquest.