William II of Dampierre, born in 1196, was a prominent lord who governed Dampierre from 1216 until his passing. He was the son of Guy II, the constable of Champagne, and Mathilde of Bourbon. Following the family tradition, his brother Archambaud VIII inherited Bourbon, while William took on the stewardship of Dampierre.
In 1223, William solidified his political influence by marrying Margaret II, Countess of Flanders and Hainault. This union not only strengthened his position but also made him the regent of Flanders, where he was known as