William the Conqueror: The Norman King Who Shaped England (1027 - 1087)

William the Conqueror, born in 1027, rose to prominence as the Duke of Normandy and famously invaded England in 1066, leading to his crowning as King of England. His victory at the Battle of Hastings solidified Norman rule over England and marked the beginning of significant political and social changes in the country. William implemented a centralized system of governance, including the compilation of the Domesday Book, which detailed landholdings and resources across England. Despite facing opposition and rebellions, William's reign brought stability and consolidation of power, laying the foundation for the medieval English monarchy. He died in 1087, leaving behind a complex legacy as both a conqueror and a ruler who shaped the course of English history.