Charles of Provence facts for kids
Charles of Provence (born in 845, died on January 25, 863) was a king who ruled a part of Europe called Provence. He became king in 855 and ruled until his early death in 863. He was part of the Carolingian family, a very important royal family in Europe during the Middle Ages.
He was the youngest son of a powerful ruler named Emperor Lothair I. His mother was Ermengarde of Tours.
A Kingdom Divided
Charles's father, Emperor Lothair I, ruled a large area called Middle Francia. Before he died, he decided to divide his kingdom among his three sons. This was a common practice for kings back then.
- His oldest son, Louis, received Italy and the title of Emperor.
- His middle son, Lothair II, received a region called Lotharingia. This area included parts of modern-day Lorraine, the Low Countries (like Belgium and the Netherlands), and Upper Burgundy.
- His youngest son, Charles, received Lower Burgundy, which included Provence.
Ruling as a Young King
Charles was only a child when his father passed away. Because he was too young to rule by himself, a trusted guardian named Count Girart de Roussillon took charge of his kingdom. Girart was a very strong and active regent (someone who rules for a king who is too young or unable to rule).
Girart did a great job protecting the kingdom. He even defended it from fierce raiders known as the Northmen. These raiders traveled up the Rhone River, reaching as far as a city called Valence.
Family Challenges
In 861, Charles's uncle, Charles the Bald, tried to get involved in Provence's affairs. He invaded Provence after someone asked him for help, but he only made it to a place called Macon. He was stopped by a powerful church leader named Hincmar of Rheims.
Charles of Provence never truly ruled his kingdom on his own. It was Girart who made important decisions. For example, in 858, Girart arranged that if Charles died without having any children, Provence would go to Charles's older brother, Lothair II.
The Kingdom After Charles
When Charles died, his older brother Louis II also wanted Provence. So, the kingdom was divided between the two brothers:
- Lothair received the areas around the cities of Lyon, Vienne, and Grenoble. These parts were still managed by Girart.
- Louis II received the areas around Arles, Aix, and Embrun.
