Erchanger, Duke of Swabia facts for kids

Erchanger (born around 860-880, died January 21, 917) was an important leader in a region called Swabia (part of modern-day Germany). He became the duke of Swabia in September 915 and held that title until his death. His father was Berthold I, who was a powerful count in Swabia. Erchanger's family was known as the Ahalolfinger.

Erchanger started his career as a royal messenger, someone who carried out the king's orders in Swabia. He was very ambitious and wanted more power for himself and his family.

Rising to Power: Early Challenges

In 911, Erchanger formed an alliance with Bishop Solomon III of Constance, a powerful church leader. They both wanted to gain more political influence in Swabia. At this time, the duke of Swabia was Burchard I, and his son was Burchard II. Erchanger worked to challenge Duke Burchard I's authority.

The Downfall of Duke Burchard I

Erchanger played a part in the troubles that led to Duke Burchard I's downfall. Burchard I was accused of serious disloyalty to the king and was put to death in 911. With Burchard I gone, Erchanger and his younger brother, Berthold, became the most powerful counts in the region.

Shifting Alliances and Royal Connections

In 913, Erchanger had a disagreement with King Conrad I of Germany. To fix this, Erchanger arranged for his sister, Cunigunda, to marry King Conrad I. Cunigunda's previous husband had recently passed away. This marriage was a smart move by Erchanger. It made him the king's representative in Swabia, giving him even more influence.

However, this new connection with the king caused his alliance with Bishop Solomon to break. Bishop Solomon began to oppose Erchanger's growing power.

Conflict with Bishop Solomon

Seeing his income and influence decrease because of the bishop, Erchanger took a drastic step: he had Bishop Solomon imprisoned in 914. King Conrad I did not approve of this. The king quickly freed the bishop and, as punishment, sent Erchanger away from Swabia.

Return and Becoming Duke

Erchanger returned to Swabia in 915. He joined forces with his nephew, Arnulf of Bavaria, and even his old rival, Burchard II, to fight against the Magyars, who were invaders at the time.

After dealing with the Magyars, Erchanger and Burchard II turned their attention to King Conrad I. They fought against the king and defeated him at the Battle of Wahlwies in a region called the Hegau. After this victory, Erchanger was declared the new Duke of Swabia.

The End of His Rule

Erchanger's time as duke was short. In September 916, at a special court meeting in Hohenaltheim, Erchanger was punished for his actions against the king and the church leader. He was sent to live in a monastery. Sadly, on January 21, 917, Erchanger was killed on the king's orders.