Arnout IV, Count of Aarschot facts for kids
Arnout IV (also known as Arnold of Aarschot) was an important figure from the 12th century. He was born around 1100 and lived until after 1152. Arnout was the Count of Aarschot. He was the son of Arnout III, Count of Aarschot and Beatrix of Looz.
Arnout became famous for his role in the Second Crusade. Like his grandfather, he was a leader of ships. These ships carried Crusaders to fight in wars. In May 1147, Arnout led a group of ships that left Dartmouth. Their mission was to help free Lisbon from a group called the Moors. This event is known as the siege of Lisbon.
The Siege of Lisbon
During the Siege of Lisbon, Arnout was a count. He led a group of fighters from the Rhineland area. Some people thought he was a nephew of Godfrey of Bouillon. Godfrey was a famous leader from the First Crusade. However, it is not certain if Arnout was truly related to Godfrey.
The battle for Lisbon was a big success for the Second Crusade. It is seen as a very important battle in a long series of wars called the Reconquista. The attacking fleet had as many as 200 ships. The Crusaders won a huge victory against the Moors. Many of the Crusaders then continued their journey to the Holy Land.
Arnout's Family
Arnout was married, but his wife's name is not known. They had one son named Godfried III. Godfried III became the next Count of Aarschot after his father. He was the last person to hold this specific title of Count. Later, in the 13th century, new titles like Lords and Dukes of Aarschot were created.
