Gauzbert, Count of Maine facts for kids

Gauzbert was an important leader known as the Count of Maine from 840 to 853. He was part of a powerful family called the Rorgonides. His father was Gauzlin I of Maine, who was also a lord in Maine, and his mother was Adeltrude.

Becoming Count

Gauzbert first appears in historical records in 839. This was in a document from his brother, Rorgon I, Count of Maine. Rorgon I died soon after, leaving behind very young children. Because of this, Gauzbert took over the important job of governing the County of Maine. His main task was to protect the area.

Protecting Maine from Invaders

As Count, Gauzbert had to defend Maine from many threats. One of the biggest dangers came from the Vikings. These were fierce warriors who often raided lands. Gauzbert worked hard to organize the defense of his county against them.

He also had to fight against other powerful leaders. One of these was Lambert II of Nantes, who was the Count of Nantes. In 852, Gauzbert's forces defeated Lambert in a surprise attack.

The End of His Rule

In 853, Gauzbert's time as Count came to an end. There are two different stories about how he died.

One story says that his overlord, Charles the Bald, accused Gauzbert of working with the Bretons. The Bretons were rebelling against Charles the Bald at the time. Some reports say that Charles the Bald had Gauzbert executed. This event supposedly made other important Frankish leaders angry. They then asked for help from Charles's half-brother and rival, Louis the German.

However, another historical record, called the Chronique de Saint-Maixent, tells a different tale. It says that citizens from Nantes attacked and killed Gauzbert. This was supposedly done to get revenge for the death of Lambert II, whom Gauzbert had killed the year before.

What Happened Next?

We don't know if Gauzbert was married or if he had any children. After his death, his nephew, Rorgon II of Maine, became the new Count of Maine.