Jennifer Spinner 5/19/99 Medieval England Period 3 “William the Conqueror” William I, also known as “William the Conqueror,” or “William the Bastard,” was born the illegitimate of Robert, Duke of Normandy, and Herleva, daughter of a wealthy Falasian in about 1027 A.D. When he was just seven years of age he became the Duke of Normandy, which put him in a vulnerable position as far as his physical well being was concerned, for several of his relatives felt that they should be duke rather than young William. He persevered, however, and became one of the most influential leaders of Medieval times with his Battle of Hastings and his glorious ascension to the English throne on Christmas Day, 1066. His twenty-one years as king, however, were not without toil. Several rebellions and uprisings threatened his control and leadership throughout his reign. Revered by some, yet despised by others, he asserted his authority throughout the realm. “ A brave fighter, a good general, a superior administrator, he gave a reasonably well-ordered and peaceful government” (Adair,492).Perhaps William’s difficult childhood prepared him for the problems he would face as king. Confronted with animosity at age seven when he became Duke of Normandy, he was a born fighter. His father’s death during a pilgrimage to the Holy Land resulted in him becoming Duke of Normandy. It was also the start of several attempts by jealous relatives to take his life. Amazingly enough, William survived his arduous youth, although some people, who tried to protect him, did not. His enemies killed three guardians and tutors. A friend of his even inadvertently saved his life. “The two were both sleeping in a very dark r...
