William the Conqueror

Reign: 1066 – 1087
Life: 1028–1087

William I spent the beginning of his reign trying to survive multiple assassination attempts due to his status as the illegitimate child of the Duke of Normandy and the daughter of a tanner. In 1066, he invaded England alongside his Franco-Norman army who defeated Harold Godwinson at the Battle of Hastings. During the battle, a rumour started that William had been killed, panicking his cavalrymen, until he lifted his helmet and exposed his face to rally his troops. He introduced motte-and-bailey castles to England as a tool to subdue the hostile local population. In 1085, William ordered the creation of the Domesday Book, a massive census to maximize tax revenues across England.

During William the Conqueror's reign, Alfonso VI of León and Castile ruled Spain, Malcolm III of Scotland ruled Scotland, and Philip I of France ruled France.

Want to learn more? Further reading

William the Conqueror by David Bates

Some book links on this site point to Amazon. As an Amazon Associate, WhoWasRuling.com may earn from qualifying purchases.

The World During Their Reign

The most notable rulers who held power elsewhere at the same time, from European courts to Ottoman, Mughal, and Chinese thrones.

Meanwhile in history

One “meanwhile in history” story each week: who ruled where, and what was happening on thrones across the world.

By subscribing you agree to receive emails from us. See our Privacy Policy. Unsubscribe any time.

From the library

Go deeper on William the Conqueror

Hand-picked histories and biographies for readers who want more than the timeline: the same era, told in full.