William II

William II (c1060-1100), King of England, b. probably in Normandy, France.

When he died in 1087, William I left the throne of England to his third son, William, known as Rufus because of his ruddy complexion. His eldest son, Robert, received the dukedom of Normandy and Norman nobles in England rebelled in an attempt to gain the throne for him. Rufus put down the rebellion and then broke his promises to the people who helped him.

Later he imposed heavy taxes on the people and quarrelled with the Christian Church. He died while hunting in the New Forest, Hampshire, after being shot in the chest with an arrow. It is believed to have been fired by Sir Walter Tyrrel who fled from England that same day.

No one knows for sure whether Rufus's death was an accident or murder. Today a memorial stone marks the place where he died. It is known as the 'Rufus Stone'.

See Emma Mason King Rufus: The Life and Mysterious Death of William II of England