William the Conqueror, also known as William I or William the Bastard, was the first Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until his death in 1087. Here are key details about his life and reign:
- Birth: Born around 1028 in Falaise, Normandy, William was the illegitimate son of Robert I, Duke of Normandy, and Herleva, a daughter of a tanner.
- Early Life: After his father's death in 1035, William succeeded him as Duke of Normandy at the age of about seven or eight. His early years were marked by political instability as various nobles vied for control over the duchy.
- Claim to the English Throne: William's claim to the English Throne was based on an alleged promise from Edward the Confessor that he would be his heir. This claim was contested by Harold Godwinson, who was crowned king after Edward's death.
- The Battle of Hastings: On October 14, 1066, William defeated Harold Godwinson at the Battle of Hastings, a pivotal event that led to his conquest of England. This victory is considered the decisive moment in the Norman Conquest of England.
- Coronation: William was crowned King of England on Christmas Day, 1066, at Westminster Abbey.
- Reign:
- William initiated significant changes in England, including the feudal system, which involved land distribution among his followers.
- He commissioned the Domesday Book, a detailed survey of England's property holdings, to assess the land for tax purposes.
- He faced numerous rebellions and spent much of his reign consolidating his power through military campaigns and castle-building.
- His rule saw the integration of Norman and Anglo-Saxon cultures, leading to changes in language, law, and architecture.
- Death: William died on September 9, 1087, after being injured by the pommel of his horse's saddle while besieging Mantes. He was buried in Caen at the Abbey of Saint-Étienne.
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