Hugh V, Count of Maine facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Hugh V of Maine
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| Count of Maine | 1069-1093 |
| Predecessor | Robert Curthose |
| Successor | Elias I, Count of Maine |
| Born | c. 1062 |
| Died | 1131 (aged 68–69) |
Hugh V was a powerful noble who ruled as the count of Maine from 1069 until about 1093.
He was the son of a noble named Albert Azzo II and Gersendis. Gersendis was the sister of Count Hugh IV of Maine. In 1070, the people of Le Mans and some local nobles decided to fight against the Norman rulers. After they pushed the Normans out, they invited young Hugh V to become their count.
However, it soon became clear that Hugh V was not a good leader. People started to dislike him. A writer named Orderic Vitalis said that Hugh V was "unfit to hold the reins of government." After a short time as count, his cousin Elias convinced Hugh to sell him the county, which Hugh did.
In 1077, Hugh married Gersent, who was the daughter of Robert Guiscard. But Hugh found he couldn't manage his marriage either, so he ended it. Because of this, he was officially punished by Pope Urban II, which meant he was no longer allowed to be part of the church. Hugh V died without having any children.
Life and Rule as Count
Hugh V was born around 1062. His father was Azzo d'Este, a powerful noble. His mother, Gersendis, was the sister of the previous ruler, Count Hugh IV.
In 1070, the people living in the region of Maine, especially in the city of Le Mans, decided they no longer wanted to be controlled by the Normans. They rebelled and successfully forced the Normans out. They then looked for a new leader and chose Hugh V to be their Count.
However, Hugh V quickly showed that he was not ready to lead. He was described as being lazy and not very brave. The people of Maine soon realized he was not the strong ruler they needed. After a short time, his cousin, Elias, saw an opportunity. Elias talked Hugh into selling him the title and lands of the county. Hugh agreed and sold his position as count.
Marriage and Later Life
In 1077, Hugh V married Gersent. She was the daughter of a famous Norman leader named Robert Guiscard. However, Hugh's marriage did not last long. He decided to end the marriage.
Because he ended his marriage, Pope Urban II took action against him. The Pope officially punished Hugh, which was a very serious matter at the time. Hugh V died later without having any children.
See also
In Spanish: Hugo V de Maine para niños
