NORMAN WARRIORS
“WILLIAM CRUSHED ALL ENGLISH OPPOSITION TO HIS RULE WITH FRIGHTENING ZEAL”
WILLIAM I 1028-87
THE NORMAN ‘BASTARD’ WHO TURNED INTO THE ‘CONQUEROR’ OF ENGLAND
By far the most successful and decisive of all the Norman warriors, William transformed his position from the ruler of a provincial duchy to the monarch of one of the most sophisticated kingdoms in Europe.
Born at Falaise, he was the illegitimate son of Robert I, Duke of Normandy and his mistress Herleva. William inherited the duchy as a child. He grew up in an insecure atmosphere where several of his guardians were killed and William’s own life was constantly in danger. His childhood turned him into a ruthless ruler, and in 1047 William asserted his
