William II, also known as William Rufus, became King of England following the death of his father, William the Conqueror, in 1087. The coronation ceremony took place at Westminster Abbey, which had become an important site for royal ceremonies. The Archbishop of Canterbury officiated the event, emphasizing the blending of ecclesiastical and royal authority that underpinned the monarchy's legitimacy. William II's ascension was not without controversy, as he inherited a kingdom that was still reeling from the Norman Conquest and marked by division among the nobility. His reign began with a commitment to establish control over his father’s extensive holdings and to assert dominion over the Anglo-Saxon population.Throughout his reign, William faced significant challenges, including uprisings from disgruntled nobles and widespread discontent among the English populace. He was often viewed unfavorably due to his harsh policies, which prioritized the interests of his Norman followers and led to tensions with various factions within the kingdom. His militaristic approach was evident through numerous campaigns to quell rebellions and expand his territory, including conflicts in Wales. His reign, although marked by strife, saw the continuation of various administrative reforms initiated by his father, which aimed to strengthen royal power and increase efficiency in governance.William II ruled until 1100, a time during which he struggled with his relationships with the Church and his barons, balancing the need for loyalty against the ambition of powerful nobles. Ultimately, his reign ended abruptly when he died under mysterious circumstances while hunting in the New Forest, paving the way for his younger brother, Henry I, to succeed him. His rule remains significant for its impact on the evolution of the English monarchy and the consolidation of Norman rule over England during the formative years following the conquest.