The Most Famous William, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the William you think is the most famous!

Updated on Jul 9, 2024 07:52

There have been many influential individuals named William throughout history, each leaving their mark in various fields such as politics, literature, science, and the arts. Deciding who stands out among them might depend on personal interests or the impact they’ve had on society. Ranking these Williams helps illustrate the diverse achievements and legacies they have left behind, making it easier for people to learn about their contributions and influence. By participating in this interactive ranking, users have the opportunity to voice their opinions on which William has resonated the most with the public or has had the most profound influence. This active engagement helps create a dynamic list that reflects current sentiments and respects historical significance. The process not only educates voters but also incites a broader discussion about historical impacts and cultural appreciation.

Who Is the Most Famous William?

1

68
points
William Shakespeare

English playwright, poet, and actor, widely regarded as the greatest writer in the English language and the world's greatest dramatist.
- Notable Works: Hamlet, Macbeth, Romeo and Juliet
- Era: Elizabethan
In other topics
2

32
points
William the Conqueror

First Norman King of England, reigning from 1066 until his death in 1087. He led the Norman Conquest of England, which was a pivotal event in English history.
- Notable Achievement: Norman Conquest of England
- Reign: 1066-1087
In other topics
3

17
points
William Faulkner

American writer and Nobel Prize laureate from Oxford, Mississippi. Faulkner wrote novels, short stories, screenplays, poetry, essays, and a play.
- Notable Works: The Sound and the Fury, As I Lay Dying
- Literary Movement: Modernism
In other topics
- Position 2 in the ranking of the most famous Mississippian
4

13
points
William Wordsworth

Major English Romantic poet who, with Samuel Taylor Coleridge, helped to launch the Romantic Age in English literature with their joint publication Lyrical Ballads.
- Notable Works: Lyrical Ballads, The Prelude
- Poetic Movement: Romanticism
5

9
points
William Wallace

Scottish knight who became one of the main leaders during the Wars of Scottish Independence.
- Notable Battle: Battle of Stirling Bridge
- Era: Late 13th - Early 14th Century
In other topics
6

0
points
William Blake

English poet, painter, and printmaker. Largely unrecognized during his lifetime, Blake is now considered a seminal figure in the history of the poetry and visual arts of the Romantic Age.
- Notable Works: Songs of Innocence and of Experience, The Marriage of Heaven and Hell
- Artistic Movement: Romanticism
In other topics
- Position 8 in the ranking of the most famous poor person
7

0
points
William Henry Gates III (Bill Gates)

American business magnate, software developer, and philanthropist. Co-founder of Microsoft Corporation.
- Notable Achievement: Co-founding Microsoft
- Philanthropy: Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
8

0
points
William Tecumseh Sherman

American Civil War general and a key architect of modern total war.
- Notable Campaign: Sherman's March to the Sea
- Rank: General
In other topics
- Position 10 in the ranking of the most famous army general
9

0
points
Prince William, Duke of Cambridge

Member of the British royal family. He is the elder son of Charles, Prince of Wales, and Diana, Princess of Wales, and second in line to the British throne.
- Royal Title: Duke of Cambridge
- Succession: Second in line to the British throne
In other topics
- Position 9 in the ranking of the most handsome prince in the world
- Position 1 in the ranking of the most handsome royal
10

0
points
William Howard Taft

27th president of the United States (1909–1913) and later the tenth Chief Justice of the United States (1921–1930), the only person to have held both offices.
- Presidency: 1909-1913
- Chief Justice: 1921-1930
In other topics
- Position 8 in the ranking of the most famous person from Cincinnati

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About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous William. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or William is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

2738 views
139 votes
10 ranked items

Movers & Shakers

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each William once every 24 hours. The rank of each William is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More about the Most Famous William

Rank #1 for the most famous William: William Shakespeare (Source)

William is a name that resonates through history. Many notable figures have carried it. The name has roots in Old German, where it means "resolute protector." Over time, it spread across Europe and beyond.

In literature, the name William appears often. Many writers and poets have chosen it for their characters. This has helped cement its place in cultural memory. The name evokes a sense of strength and leadership.

In politics, several leaders have borne the name. Their decisions and actions have shaped nations. They have led their people through wars, economic changes, and social shifts. Their legacies continue to influence current events.

The name William is also prominent in science. Some of the greatest minds in history have had this name. Their discoveries and inventions have changed the way we live. They have expanded our understanding of the world and the universe.

In the arts, the name stands out too. Many actors, musicians, and artists named William have left their mark. Their works inspire and entertain millions. They push the boundaries of their fields and set new standards of excellence.

In sports, the name William is not uncommon. Athletes with this name have achieved great things. They have broken records, won championships, and inspired fans around the world. Their dedication and skill are admired by many.

The name William has also been popular in royal families. Many kings and princes have had this name. They have ruled with varying degrees of success. Their reigns are often remembered for their impact on history. Some have been beloved, while others have been controversial.

In everyday life, William is a common name. Many people know someone named William. It is a name that transcends social and economic boundaries. It is as likely to belong to a CEO as to a farmer. This widespread use speaks to its enduring appeal.

The name William has a timeless quality. It carries a sense of history and tradition. Yet, it remains modern and relevant. Parents continue to choose it for their children. It is a name that fits any era, any culture, and any individual.

In conclusion, William is a name with a rich and varied history. It has been borne by many influential people across different fields. Its meaning and legacy continue to resonate. It is a name that stands the test of time.