Which of the following events historically took place first?

The Battle of Hastings took place in 1066, marking a significant event in English history as it resulted in the Norman conquest of England. This battle was fought between the Norman forces led by William the Conqueror and the English army commanded by King Harold II. The outcome of this battle had far-reaching effects, changing the ruling class and cultural landscape of England.

In contrast, the Battle of Bosworth occurred in 1485, representing the decisive conflict in the Wars of the Roses and leading to the rise of the Tudor dynasty. The Spanish Armada was launched against England in 1588, reflecting Elizabethan England's naval conflicts. The Battle of Blenheim, fought in 1704 during the War of the Spanish Succession, was significant in the history of European warfare but occurred much later than the other events listed.

Given this historical timeline, it is clear why the Battle of Hastings is identified as the earliest event among the choices.