In 1086, King William I commissioned a comprehensive survey of England known as the Domesday Book. Why was this record so critical for the operation of the newly established feudal system?
- It provided an official record of land ownership and property value for taxation purposes.Answer
- BIt was used to recruit all able-bodied peasants into a permanent, paid national army.
- CIt served as a legal charter that granted peasants the right to own the land they farmed.
- DIt listed the names of all citizens so they could vote for representatives in the King's Council.
Answer
The Domesday Book was critical because it provided an official record of land ownership and property value for taxation purposes.
The Domesday Book was a revolutionary administrative tool that documented the owner, value, and resources of every piece of land in England. This allowed William the Conqueror to ensure that his tenants-in-chief (nobles) were paying the correct amount of tax and providing the required military support, which were the pillars of the feudal system.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
The administrative function of the Domesday Book in supporting the feudal hierarchy through land and tax records.