William The Conqueror Flashcards, test questions and answers

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What is William The Conqueror?

William the Conqueror, also known as William I (1028-1087), was the first Norman King of England. Born in Falaise, France in 1028, he came to power in 1066 by claiming the English throne after defeating his rival King Harold II at the Battle of Hastings. He is widely known for his successful invasion and unification of England, which led to its transformation from a loosely organized kingdom into a powerful state with solidified laws and institutions. During his reign, he introduced feudalism and built numerous fortresses as part of Norman conquest across England. William had an affinity for battle from an early age; he fought alongside his father Duke Robert I on several campaigns across Europe before taking power as Duke himself upon Robert’s death in 1035. In 1051, William attempted to take control of neighboring Normandy from its then-lord, leading to three years of civil war before William emerged victorious and was crowned Duke in 1060. In mid-October 1066, after receiving news that Harold II had been crowned king following Edward’s death earlier that year despite having sworn loyalty to him years earlier, William set sail with an army and fleet to invade England. After sailing up the River Thames until reaching London Bridge on September 28th , William marched his forces south towards Hastings where they met Harold’s army on October 14th. After more than six hours of battle which included both cavalry charges and infantry engagements , William emerged victorious over Harold II , killing him during their final confrontation. His victory at Hastings marked another important milestone during his reign: the beginning of English feudalisma system similar to that which existed throughout much of Europe at the timewhereby landholders were granted rights such as taxation or military service in exchange for their loyalty. This system gave rise to a strong centralized monarchy and paved way for further Norman conquests throughout Britain including Wales , Scotland , Ireland. It can be said without a doubt that no other medieval ruler had such influence over England like William did – he changed almost every aspect about it: politically , economically , socially – making it one unified country under strong governance instead before existing as divided states held together by little more than tradition. His legacy still holds today ; many places bear his name; monuments have been erected all around Britain commemorating him ; even today most people are familiar with this famous figure who made such impactful changes during Medieval times .