Otto I the Illustrious facts for kids
Otto I of Saxony, also known as Otto the Illustrious, was an important German leader who lived from around 841 to 912. He was the Duke of Saxony, a powerful region in what is now Germany. Otto was the father of Henry I the Fowler and the grandfather of Otto I the Great, both of whom became famous kings. His daughter, Oda, also married Zwentibold, who was a king in a place called Lotharingia.
Early Life and Family
Otto was born sometime between 830 and 841. His father was Liudolf, who was also a Duke of Saxony. His mother was Gisela. Otto's family was very important and had been leaders in Saxony for a long time. His uncle was Berengar I of Italy, another significant ruler.
A Powerful Leader
Otto was a very strong and influential leader in Saxony and eastern Germany for many years. His family had connections to other powerful rulers. For example, his sister, Liutgard, was married to King Louis the Younger. Around the 890s, Otto's daughter, Oda, married Zwentibold, who was the King of Lotharingia. These marriages helped to strengthen Otto's family power and influence across different regions.
The Offer of Kingship
In 911, the King of the East Franks, Louis the Child, died without any children to take his place. The important German nobles needed to choose a new king. They thought Otto was a great choice and offered him the crown. However, Otto was quite old at this time, around 70 years old, and he decided to say no to the offer. Instead, he suggested that Conrad to Franken, who was a powerful political rival, should become king. Later, in 918, Otto's own son, Henry I the Fowler, was chosen to be king.
See also
In Spanish: Otón I de Sajonia para niños
