"William the Conqueror" by Edward A. Freeman William I, usually known as William the Conqueror and sometimes William the Bastard, was the first Norman king of England, reigning from 1066 until his death in 1087. He is best remembered for leading the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, which changed the course of English history and earned him the name William the Conqueror. This book explores William's character and reasoning and turns this ruler into a more sympathetic and neutral character.