Before 1066, England was not a single unified kingdom but rather a collection of smaller kingdoms and earldoms. Each kingdom was ruled by a king or queen and each earldom by an earl. The borders between these kingdoms and earldoms were often fluid, as they were often conquered and annexed by their neighbours. The most powerful kingdom in England at this time was Wessex, which was ruled by King Edward the Confessor.
The Royal Court
The royal court was the centre of royal power. It was made up of the king or queen, their family, and their most trusted advisors. The royal court was also responsible for governing the kingdom and administering justice.
The King's Council
The king's council was a group of advisors who were appointed by the king to help him govern the kingdom. The council was made up of earls, bishops, and other powerful men. The council met regularly to discuss important matters of state and to make decisions on behalf of the king.
The Witan
The Witan was a group of powerful men who met regularly to advise the king. The Witan was made up of earls, bishops, abbots, and other powerful men. The Witan also met to hold trials for serious crimes and to make laws.
The Anglo-Saxon Church
The Anglo-Saxon Church played an important role in English society. The Church was responsible for providing religious instruction, education, and healthcare. The Church also played a significant role in politics. The most powerful bishop in England was the Archbishop of Canterbury.
The Feudal System
The feudal system was a social and economic system based on land ownership. Under the feudal system, the king owned all the land in England and granted it to his lords in exchange for their loyalty and military service. The lords then granted land to their knights in exchange for their loyalty and military service. This system created a hierarchy of society, with the king at the top and the peasants at the bottom.
Peasants and Slaves
Peasants and slaves made up the vast majority of the English population. Peasants were free men who farmed the land for a living. Slaves were owned by their masters and had no rights.