The Deeds of the Dukes of Normandy

The Gesta Normannorum Ducum [The Deeds of the Dukes of Normandy] is a landmark medieval chronicle tracing the rise and fall of the Norman dynasty from its early roots through the pivotal events surrounding the Norman Conquest of England. Originally penned in Latin by the monk William of Jumièges shortly before 1060 and later expanded at the behest of William the Conqueror, the work chronicles the deeds, politics, battles, and leadership of the Norman dukes, especially William’s own claim to the English throne. The narrative combines earlier historical sources with firsthand information and oral testimony to present an authoritative account of Normandy’s transformation from a Viking settlement into one of medieval Europe’s most powerful realms. William’s history emphasizes the legitimacy, military prowess, and governance of the Norman line, framing their expansion, including the conquest of England, as both divinely sanctioned and noble in purpose. Later chroniclers such as Orderic Vitalis and Robert of Torigni continued the history, extending the coverage into the 12th century, providing broader context on ducal rule and its impact. Today this classic work remains a foundational source for understanding Norman identity, medieval statesmanship, and the historical forces that reshaped England and Western Europe between 800AD and 1100AD.

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Biography of Sackville Crowe 1st Baronet 1595-1671

On 7th December 1595 Sackville Crowe 1st Baronet was born.

On 5th April 1627 Sackville Crowe 1st Baronet [aged 31] was appointed Treasurer of the Navy which position he held until 21st January 1630.

On 8th July 1627 Sackville Crowe 1st Baronet [aged 31] was created 1st Baronet Crowe of Llanherne in the Carmarthenshire.

In May 1634 Sackville Crowe 1st Baronet [aged 38] and Mary Manners Lady Crowe [aged 24] were married having eloped. She by marriage Lady Crowe of Llanherne in the Carmarthenshire.

Around 1637 [his son] Sackville Crowe 2nd Baronet was born to Sackville Crowe 1st Baronet [aged 41] and [his wife] Mary Manners Lady Crowe [aged 27].

John Evelyn's Diary. 20th April 1665. To Whitehall [Map], to the King [aged 34], who called me into his bedchamber as he was dressing, to whom, I showed the letter written to me from the Duke of York [aged 31] from the fleet, giving me notice of young Evertzen, and some considerable commanders newly taken in fight with the Dartmouth and Diamond frigates, whom he had sent me as prisoners at war; I went to know of his Majesty how he would have me treat them, when he commanded me to bring the young captain to him, and to take the word of the Dutch Ambassador (who yet remained here) for the other, that he should render himself to me whenever I called on him, and not stir without leave. Upon which I desired more guards, the prison being Chelsea House. I went also to Lord Arlington [aged 47] (the Secretary Bennet lately made a Lord) about other business. Dined at my Lord Chancellor's [aged 56]; none with him but Sir Sackville Crowe [aged 69], formerly Ambassador at Constantinople; we were very cheerful and merry.

On 27th October 1671 Sackville Crowe 1st Baronet [aged 75] died. His son Sackville [aged 34] succeeded 2nd Baronet Crowe of Llanherne in the Carmarthenshire.