William The Conqueror, King of England

William the Conqueror, born around 1028 in Falaise, Normandy, was the son of Robert I, Duke of Normandy, and his mistress Herleva. As an illegitimate child, William encountered difficulties in securing his position after his father's death in 1035. He became Duke of Normandy and worked to consolidate his power over the region.

By 1060, William had secured his hold on Normandy and expanded his influence by marrying Matilda of Flanders in the 1050s. This alliance strengthened his position, allowing him to appoint supporters to key positions in the church. His ambitions extended to England, where he became a contender for the throne after the death of Edward the Confessor.

In 1066, William claimed that Edward had promised him the English throne and that Harold Godwinson had sworn to support his claim. He invaded England with a Franco-Norman army, defeating Harold at the Battle of Hastings on 14 October 1066. William was crowned King of England on Christmas Day, 1066.

Following his coronation, William faced several rebellions in England but managed to secure his rule by 1075. His reign saw the construction of castles and the establishment of a new Norman nobility. He also ordered the compilation of the Domesday Book in 1086, a comprehensive survey of landholdings in England.

William's later years involved conflicts with his eldest son, Robert Curthose, and threats of invasion by the Danes. He continued to manage his continental domains separately from England, maintaining his authority over both regions. His efforts to consolidate power were ongoing until his death.

In 1087, William led a campaign in northern France, during which he suffered an injury or illness. He died on 9 September 1087 at the Priory of Saint Gervase in Rouen. He was buried in Caen, Normandy, in the Abbaye-aux-Hommes, a foundation he had established.

William's death led to the division of his lands, with Normandy going to his son Robert and England to his second surviving son, William Rufus.