Erard II, Count of Brienne facts for kids

Erard II of Brienne (died 1191) was a powerful count from the House of Brienne in France. He was in charge of Brienne from 1161 until his death in 1191. Erard II was also an important French general during the Third Crusade, a major religious war. He is especially remembered for his role in the long and difficult Siege of Acre.

Erard II of Brienne: A Crusader Count

Erard II was the son of Gautier II, who was also a count of Brienne. His mother was Humbeline Baudemont. His grandparents were Erard I, Count of Brienne and Alix de Roucy. This shows he came from a long line of important noble families.

Who Was Erard II's Family?

Before 1166, Erard II married Agnès of Montfaucon. She was the daughter of Amadeus II of Montfaucon. Together, Erard and Agnès had several children who would become important figures themselves.

Their children included:

• Walter III of Brienne (died 1205), who became the count of Brienne after his father. He also claimed the throne of Sicily.
• William of Brienne (died 1199), who was the lord of Pacy-sur-Armançon. He married Eustachie of Courtenay.
• John of Brienne (1170–1237), who became the king of Jerusalem for many years. Later, he even served as the emperor of Constantinople.
• Andrew
• Ida of Brienne, who married Ernoul of Reynel.

Erard II and the Third Crusade

Erard II played a key role in the Third Crusade. This was a huge military effort by European Christians to take back the Holy Land from Muslim control. Many important leaders, including kings, joined this crusade.

What Was the Siege of Acre?

One of the most famous battles of the Third Crusade was the Siege of Acre. This was a very long and difficult siege of the city of Acre, which lasted from 1189 to 1191. Erard II was a central figure in this siege. During the fighting, his brother, André of Brienne, sadly died on October 4, 1189. Erard II himself died during the siege in 1191. His nephew was Erard of Brienne-Ramerupt.

Erard II's Famous Children

Erard II's family continued to be very influential. His son, John of Brienne, became one of the most well-known members of the family. John's journey from being a French noble to becoming King of Jerusalem and then Emperor of Constantinople shows the lasting impact of Erard II's lineage.