Final answer:
The French language was introduced to England after the Normans, led by William the Conqueror, won the Battle of Hastings in 1066. The ruling and official domains adopted French, which later blended with the English language, significantly influencing its vocabulary and evolution.
Step-by-step explanation:
Introduction of the French Language to England
The introduction of the French language to England occurred after the Norman Conquest of 1066. The Normans, led by William the Conqueror, brought French as the language of the ruling class to England. This influence was seen not only in the royal court and administration but also in legal and educational systems.
The domination of the Normans established French as the language of power and prestige in England during the Middle Ages. The Magna Carta, signed in 1215, was initially drafted in Latin, but the influence of French was undeniable in the governance of the country. Over time, English, which was widely spoken by the common people, evolved by absorbing French words and thus enriching its vocabulary.
Although English eventually became the dominant language again, French influence remains evident in modern English, with many words of French origin still in use. The Norman invasion had a lasting impact on the English language, law, and society.