In the first half of the eleventh century, the Normans gained much territory in Italy but in so doing had made many enemies. In 1054 Pope Leo IX brought together a force of Lombards, Germans and Byzantines to confront them. The Normans won an overwhelming victory and effectively conquered the southern half of the peninsula
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Excellent job. I have enjoyed listening and will continue to do so as you enter my favorite period of the high middle age.
Excellent coverage of the historical prelude to this battle.