1 August – Domesday Book is presented to William at
Old Sarum.[4]
1087
9 September – William I of England (William the Conqueror) dies at
Rouen while on campaign in northern France; his first son Robert succeeds him as
Robert II, Duke of Normandy whilst his second son succeeds him on the English throne as
William II of England.[1]
The
Worcestershire rebellion led by
Robert de Lacy (a son of
Ilbert de Lacy) is dealt with quickly by
Wulfstan, bishop of
Worcester, who calls on those knights and local landowners still loyal to William II to defend Worcester. Many of the rebels are captured or killed.
William II calls the representatives of the
fyrd to a meeting in London. He promises (with the support of
Lanfranc, bishop of
Canterbury) the people better laws, and the removal of taxes if they support him against the rebels.
William II lays siege to
Pevensey Castle where Odo of Bayeux has taken shelter with Robert. Odo is forced to surrender, and agrees to go to
Rochester to convince the rebels to accept William as the rightful king of
England.
July – William II lays siege to
Rochester Castle and puts down the revolt. Odo of Bayeux and the rebels surrender (only agreeing that their lives will be spared). William takes Odo's lands and exiles him to
Normandy.[2] The church of
Gloucester Abbey and
Tonbridge Castle are among the places laid waste in the rebellion.