Lady Godiva ( died between 1066 and 1086) was a late Anglo-Saxon noblewoman who is relatively well documented as the wife of Leofric, Earl of Mercia, and a patron of various churches and monasteries.

Lady Godiva took pity on the people of Coventry, who were suffering grievously under her husband's oppressive taxation.

 Lady Godiva appealed again and again to her husband, who obstinately refused to lower the taxes. 

At last, weary of her entreaties, he said he would grant her request if she would strip naked and ride on a horse through the streets of the town.

Lady Godiva took him at his word, and after issuing a proclamation that all persons should stay indoors and shut their windows, she rode through the town, clothed only in her long hair.

(Wikipedia)