Patrick, 1st Earl of Salisbury facts for kids
Patrick of Salisbury was an important nobleman in England a long time ago, around the 1100s. He was known as the 1st Earl of Salisbury. He was also the uncle of a very famous knight named William Marshal.
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Who Was Patrick of Salisbury?
Patrick of Salisbury was born around 1122. His parents were Walter of Salisbury and Sibyl de Chaworth. Patrick grew up to become a powerful figure in his local area.
A Powerful Official
Before 1141, Patrick held an important job. He was the constable of Salisbury. A constable was a powerful local official. This job gave him a lot of influence in the region.
Changing Sides in a War
England was going through a difficult time back then. There was a civil war called "The Anarchy." This war was fought between King Stephen and the Empress Matilda.
Patrick made a big political move. He decided to switch his support from King Stephen to Empress Matilda. To make this change stronger, he arranged for his sister, Sibyl, to marry John fitzGilbert the Marshal. John Marshal had been a rival of Patrick's.
This smart move helped Patrick a lot. He gained the friendship of John Marshal. More importantly, Empress Matilda made him an Earl. This was a very high title for a nobleman.
Earl and Coin Maker
As the Earl of Salisbury, Patrick gained even more power. He even had the right to make his own coins! These coins were made in Salisbury, the main town of his county. This happened during a time when many powerful lords made their own money. Only a few of these special coins still exist today.
Patrick's nephew, William Marshal, later became a very important person. William served as a knight in Patrick's household for a while. William Marshal would go on to become a regent of England. A regent rules the country when the king is too young.
Family Life
Patrick of Salisbury was married two times. His second wife was named Ela. She was the daughter of William III Talvas. They got married in 1149. Ela had been married before.
Patrick and Ela had several children together. Their son, William, was born around 1150. They also had other children, including sons named Walter and Philip.
His Final Days
Patrick of Salisbury was killed in France. This happened on March 27, 1168. He was in a place called Poitiers. He was caught in a surprise attack by forces led by Guy of Lusignan.
