Royalty · 1028–1087
Born: 8 November 1028 · Died: 9 September 1087 · Age at death: 58
William the Conqueror died aged 58. He was born on 8 November 1028 and died on 9 September 1087.
Duke of Normandy who invaded England, won the Battle of Hastings in 1066 and ordered the Domesday Book
Did you know?He was often referred to by the derogatory nickname "the Bastard" before his successful invasion and conquest of England in 1066.
William the Conqueror changed England for ever. The illegitimate son of the Duke of Normandy, he inherited the duchy as a boy and survived years of plots. In 1066 he claimed the English throne and crossed the Channel with an army. He defeated King Harold at the Battle of Hastings and was crowned on Christmas Day. He crushed rebellions brutally, especially in the north. Norman castles rose across the land. His Domesday Book recorded the wealth of his new kingdom.
William the Conqueror (c. 1028 – 9 September 1087), sometimes called William the Bastard, was the first Norman king of England (as William I), reigning from 1066 until his death. A descendant of Rollo, he was Duke of Normandy (as William II) from 1035 onward.
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Profile
King of England, c. 1028–1087
William was born in Falaise, Normandy, around 1028.
He became Duke of Normandy as a boy.
He won the Battle of Hastings on 14 October 1066.
He ordered the Domesday Book in 1085.
Career highlights
Did you know?He was crowned in Westminster Abbey on Christmas Day 1066.
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Last reviewed: October 2026