4 Medieval Rulers Who Committed Horrific Acts of Evil

Their crimes will never be forgotten

Jacob Wilkins

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A portrait of Vlad the Impaler by an unknown artist, c. 1560 (Wikimedia Commons)

After the fall of the Roman Empire, Europe entered the Medieval era. This period of history, also known as the Middle Ages, featured several bloodthirsty rulers who murdered the innocent for their own gain.

Unfazed by the misery and pain they inflicted, these men committed horrific acts of evil that are now an infamous part of human history.

1. King William I

A painting of King William I by an unknown artist, c. 1650 (Wikimedia Commons)

William I (also known as William of Normandy) defeated Harold II at the Battle of Hastings in 1066 and became the new King of England.

In the wake of his victory, William allowed his army to pillage and rape the southeast of England. He then imposed new laws, raised taxes, and introduced harsh punishments against those who stepped out of line.

The people of England were infuriated by William’s new laws, and a series of revolts sprung up in the north of the country. In response, William and his army attacked the northern villages by killing men, women, and children. They also slaughtered livestock and burned down barns.

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