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Table of Contents
William The Conqueror
Birth
William was born in 1028 in Falaise, Normandy, France.1)
Son Of Robert I
He was the illegitimate son of Robert I, Duke of Normandy, and Herleva, a tanner's daughter.2)
Original Name
His original name was William the Bastard, before he became William the Conqueror.3)
Duke Of Normandy
William became Duke of Normandy at the age of 7, following his father's death in 1035.4)
Faced Challenges
He faced numerous challenges to his rule during his early years, including rebellion from his barons.5)
Imposing Stature
William was known for his imposing physical stature, reportedly standing over 6 feet tall.6)
Invaded England
In 1066, William invaded England, leading to the famous Battle of Hastings on October 14, 1066.7)
Battle of Hastings
He defeated King Harold II of England at the Battle of Hastings, securing his claim to the English throne.8)
Last Succesful Invasion Of England
William's victory at Hastings marked the last successful invasion of England to this day.9)
Coronation
He was crowned King of England on Christmas Day, 1066, at Westminster Abbey.10)
Norman Conquest of England
William initiated the Norman Conquest of England, which led to significant changes in English society, culture, and governance.11)
Feudalism In England
The Norman Conquest introduced feudalism to England, with William redistributing land to his Norman followers.12)
Domesday Book
William commissioned the Domesday Book in 1085, a comprehensive survey of England's landholdings and wealth, to better administer his new kingdom.13)
Royal Authority
He strengthened royal authority in England by centralizing power and imposing his will on the English nobility.14)
Numerous Rebellions
William faced numerous rebellions during his reign, particularly in the north of England, which he brutally suppressed.15)
Harrying of the North
The Harrying of the North, a scorched-earth campaign in 1069-1070, devastated northern England and quelled resistance to Norman rule.16)