William the Conqueror Author:Jacob Abbot William of Normandy embodied the reckless, adventuresome spirit of his Viking Ancestors. Having established a firm rule over his domain on the northwestern coast of France, he lookied across the English Channel with longing eyes upon the kingdom of England and determined to add this jewel to his realm. The quick invasion and victory that resul... more »ted, remembered in history as the Norman Conquest, established William the Conqueror in the volumes of world history. Through this fascinating life story, biographer Jacob Abbott shows how the very traits that brought this great leader to power-pride and ambition-brought him to a bitter end.« less