William I Interesting Facts

1 The first Norman king of England

He was already the Duke of Normandy, a region of France, when he aspired to the English throne. Normans are not originally from France, they orignated from Scandinavia and were originally known as ‘norsemen’.

2 Viking descent

His great-great-great grandfather, Rollo, was a fabled viking warrior. He was part of the original invasion in the 9th and 10th centuries that took Normandy away from French rule. Allowing the vikings to take possession of northern France kept them from pushing further into the country.

3 Illiterate

Like a lot of the aristocracy at that time, William was unable to read or write. He was more interested in physical pursuits like sport and hunting in which he excelled.

4 Domesday

The Domesday book was the first recorded audit of the land and belongings of the English population. The intention behind it was to be able to assess the level of taxes the King could demand from his people. The name Domesday Book refers to the unalterable facts contained within it, and the feeling of doom it inspired - it was commissioned in 1085, it was completed in 1086

5 Very strong

William was said to have been able to leap up on to his horse in full armour. He was also unusually tall for the time at 5ft 10, as well being very muscular. His physique changed over the years though and by the time he died he was very overweight.

6 Three languages for England during his reign

William never learned to speak English very well, so French was spoken at Court. It’s influence spread and words such as pork and mutton were introduced to the English population. Latin was spoken in church while English was heard in the countryside.

7 Popular William

William was the number one baby name in the 13th century. It remains popular to this day and regularly features in the top ten of British names. Originally of German origin, it means desire (will) and protection (helm).

8 Here to stay

Over a quarter of the British population are said to be descended from William the Conqueror. This number includes every King or Queen of England since his reign ended.

9 Won't take no for an answer

His future wife, Matilda of Flanders, originally turned down his marriage proposal. This was not the answer he wanted. He rode after her and pulled her off her horse by her braids. He then rode away. She must have been impressed by his horseplay because she accepted him after that.