ABSTRACT
Ruler of Normandy in France and king of England whose successes became exemplary for medieval rulers in the European Middle Ages. William’s conquest of England in 1066, known as the Norman Conquest, introduced profound and enduring changes to England, including French language, art, learning, and feudalism, the political system that structured medieval society in France and other parts of Europe. William was the epitome of a vigorous warrior-king and admired by chroniclers and historians for his ambitious leadership, personal prowess in battle, and the administrative government he established in England.
