kids encyclopedia robot

Paladin (disambiguation) facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

A Paladin is a word with a rich history, often bringing to mind brave knights and heroes. Originally, a paladin was one of the twelve legendary knights who served the great King Charlemagne in medieval stories. These knights were known for their courage, honor, and skill in battle.

Over time, the word "paladin" has come to mean any chivalrous (brave and honorable) knight, a medieval warrior, or a champion who fights for a good cause. It can also refer to a trusted leader or a strong supporter of a cause.

Besides this main meaning, "Paladin" or "Palatine" can also refer to different places, books, characters, and even vehicles! This article will explore the many ways this interesting word is used.

Places Named Palatine or Paladin

The word "Palatine" comes from the Palatine Hill in Rome, which was one of the seven hills where the city was founded. Because of its historical importance, the name has been used for various places around the world.

Regions and Hills

  • Rhineland-Palatinate: This is one of the 16 modern states in Germany. It's known for its beautiful rivers, castles, and vineyards.
  • Electorate of the Palatinate: This was a very important historical territory within the Holy Roman Empire. The ruler of this area, called the Count Palatine, was one of the special "electors" who chose the Holy Roman Emperor.
  • Palatine Hill: This is the most central of the seven famous hills of Rome, Italy. It's where ancient Roman emperors and important people lived.
  • Tavola dei Paladini: This is an ancient temple located near Metapontum, Italy. It dates back to between 570 and 480 BC. Legend says that the famous Greek mathematician and philosopher Pythagoras died there.

Towns in the United States

Hamlet in Ireland

Paladin in Stories and Entertainment

The idea of a brave and noble paladin has inspired many stories, games, and characters in fiction.

Role-Playing Games and Novels

  • Paladin (role-playing game): This is a type of game where players create characters and go on adventures, often fighting for good.
  • The Paladin: This is a fantasy novel written by C. J. Cherryh in 1988, featuring heroic themes.
  • The Paladin (novel): This novel was written by Brian Garfield in 1979, with a character named Christopher Creighton.

Comic Book Characters

  • Paladin (comics): This is a character who appears in Marvel Comics. He is often shown as a mercenary (someone who works for money) but with a strong sense of honor.

Other Uses of Paladin

The name "Paladin" is also used for various other things, from vehicles to music.

Vehicles and Military Equipment

  • Nissan Paladin: This is a type of sport utility vehicle (SUV) made by the car company Nissan.
  • M109 PALADIN: This is a powerful piece of military artillery, also known as the M109 howitzer. It is a self-propelled cannon used by armies around the world.

Music

  • The Paladins: This is a music band from San Diego, California. They formed around 1981 and are known for playing roots-rock or rockabilly music.

See also

A robot, symbolizing technology and learning. In Spanish: Paladín (desambiguación) para niños

kids search engine
Paladin (disambiguation) Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.