Duchy of Normandy

The Duchy of Normandy stems from the Viking invasions of France in the eighth century. Officially created in 911 out of concessions made by King Charles to Rollo of the Normans. Originally encompassing the province of Neustria and a portion of Breton territory on the Northern Coast and interior of France, it is now divided between French and British territory.

In 1066, Duke William defeated Harold II of England at the Battle of Hastings and was subsequently crowned King of England. The Duchy now fell under English rule until 1204, when Phillip II of France conquered it. The Treaty of Paris (1295) gave the lands, with the exception of the Channel Islands back to France (with the exception of the island of Chausey). This which is why the Queen of the United Kingdom is toasted on the islands as the Duke of Normandy (or Our Queen, the Duke) even though according to Salic law she is not.