Robert I of Normandy was a notable figure in the early medieval period, born around 1000. He was the son of Richard II of Normandy and became the Duke of Normandy in 1027 after his father's death. Robert is often remembered for his efforts to strengthen the duchy and for his conflicts with neighboring territories. In 1035, Robert embarked on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, leaving his young son, William the Conqueror, as his heir. His journey was significant, as it marked a shift in the power dynamics of Normandy. Robert's reign laid the groundwork for William's future conquests and the eventual Norman invasion of England in 1066.