Is Queen Elizabeth II Related to William the Conqueror? The Surprising Truth About the Royal Family Tree

Queen Elizabeth II is one of the most famous and respected monarchs in the world. She has reigned over the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth realms since 1952, making her the longest-serving head of state in history. But how much do you know about her ancestry and genealogy? Is she related to William the Conqueror, the first Norman king of England who invaded the country in 1066 and changed its history forever? In this article, we will explore the fascinating connections between Queen Elizabeth II and William the Conqueror, and reveal some surprising facts about the royal family tree.

Who Was William the Conqueror?

William the Conqueror was born around 1028 in Normandy, France. He was the illegitimate son of Duke Robert I of Normandy and Herleva, a tanner’s daughter. He was known as William the Bastard by his contemporaries, as his birth status affected his early life and career. He became Duke of Normandy at the age of seven, after his father’s death, and had to face many rebellions and threats from his rivals and neighbours. He proved himself to be a skilled and ruthless military leader, who consolidated his power over Normandy and expanded his influence over neighbouring regions.

William’s claim to the English throne was based on his assertion that King Edward the Confessor, who died childless in 1066, had promised him the succession. He also claimed that Harold Godwinson, a powerful English nobleman who was crowned king after Edward’s death, had sworn allegiance to him and betrayed him by taking the throne. William decided to invade England with a large army of Normans and allies, and landed at Pevensey on September 28, 1066. He defeated Harold’s army at the Battle of Hastings on October 14, 1066, and became King of England on Christmas Day of that year.

William’s reign was marked by many challenges and achievements. He faced several rebellions from the Anglo-Saxon nobility and population, who resented his foreign rule and harsh policies. He suppressed these revolts with brutal force, and established a strong central authority over England. He also initiated many reforms in the administration, law, church, and culture of his new kingdom. He commissioned the Domesday Book, a comprehensive survey of land and property in England, which is a valuable source of historical information. He also built many castles, churches, and monasteries across the country, including the Tower of London and Westminster Abbey.

William died on September 9, 1087, in Rouen, France, from injuries he sustained during a siege. He was buried in Caen, Normandy, where his tomb can still be seen today. He left behind a large and complex dynasty that would shape the history of England and Europe for centuries to come.

How Is Queen Elizabeth II Related to William the Conqueror?

Queen Elizabeth II is a direct descendant of William the Conqueror through both her paternal and maternal lines. She is his 22nd great-granddaughter through her father King George VI, and his 23rd great-granddaughter through her mother Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother.

The following table shows one possible line of descent from William to Elizabeth through her father:

The following table shows one possible line of descent from William to Elizabeth through her mother:

The table continues as follows: