This paper explores the concept of nationalism in England in 1066, English unity, social make-up and the ferocity of their
opposition to the invaders. It looks at how the Normans attempted to justify their
conquest of England and, in particular, why. It examines how the 'rightful claimant to the throne' needed to put such an
emphasis on the justification of the conquest. It looks at how William of Normandy held a strong claim to the English throne and how the Norman use of propaganda and their emphasis on the 'will of God' suggests there was a seed of doubt somewhere in the Norman establishment concerning legitimacy.