The Norman conquest of England initiated by the invasion of the Kingdom of England by William the Conqueror (Duke of Normandy) in 1066 and his success at the Battle of Hastings resulted in the Norman control of England. The Norman Conquest was a pivotal event in English history for a number of reasons. This conquest linked England more closely with Continental Europe through the introduction of a Norman aristocracy, thereby lessening Scandinavian influence. It created one of the most powerful monarchies in Europe and engendered a sophisticated governmental system. The conquest changed the English language and culture, and set the stage for rivalry with France, which would continue intermittently until the 20th century. It has an iconic role in English national identity as the last successful military conquest of England.