Lady Godiva

Lady Godiva (/ɡəˈdaɪvə/; died between 1066 and 1086), known in Old English as Godgifu, was a prominent late Anglo-Saxon noblewoman. Historical records document her as the wife of Leofric, Earl of Mercia, and a generous patron of various churches and monasteries.

Her enduring legacy, however, stems from a legend that dates back to at least the 13th century. According to this tale, she rode through the streets of Coventry wearing nothing but her long hair to persuade her husband Leofric to reduce the oppressive taxes he had imposed on his tenants. The term "Peeping Tom," now synonymous with voyeurism, originated from later versions of this legend, in which a man named Thomas observed her forbidden ride and was consequently struck blind or dead.