William I (the conqueror)

William was born in around 1028, in Falaise, Normandy the illegitimate son of Robert I, Duke of Normandy. He was known as "William the Bastard" to his contemporaries or "William the conqueror" to his enemies. On his father's death in 1035, William was recognised as heir, with his great uncle serving as regent. In 1042, he began to take more personal control.  From 1046 until 1055, he dealt with a series of baronial rebellions. William's political and military successes helped him in negotiations to marry Matilda, daughter of Count Baldwin of Flanders in 1053. He also helped to organize the feudal system. Feudalism was created out of an act of protection and order for the people. This system was first introduced to England following the invasion and conquest of the country by William  in 1066. He led the battle against King Harold for the claim of the throne, which was promised to William by King Edward, but he decided to give it to Harold on his death bed. After his conquest William had to find a way to keep control and maintain his land while he left for Normandy, which he was the Duke of. Giving power to kings and lords to help maintain the land, William created feudalism.

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