Ragenold of Neustria facts for kids
Ragenold (also known as Raino) was an important leader in a part of France long ago. He was a Count, which was like a powerful local ruler, starting in 852. Later, in 878, he became the Count of Maine and a Margrave of Neustria. A Margrave was a special kind of count who protected the border areas, especially against the Vikings. Ragenold's family history isn't fully known, but some people think he might have been the son of another leader named Reginald of Herbauges.
Ragenold's Rise to Power
In the year 878, a leader named Gauzfrid passed away. He had been the Margrave of Neustria and the Count of Maine. The king at the time, Charles the Bald, needed someone strong to take over these important roles. Gauzfrid's children were too young to lead, so King Charles chose Ragenold. This made Ragenold responsible for protecting a large area of land, especially from the dangerous Vikings.
Facing the Vikings
Ragenold's main job as Margrave was to defend the land against the Vikings. These were groups of people from the north who often attacked and raided towns. On July 25, 885, the Vikings attacked and robbed the city of Rouen. Ragenold quickly gathered his forces and went to surprise the Viking raiders. He fought bravely against them, but sadly, he was killed during the battle.
Sources
- Guillotel, Hubert. "Une autre marche de Neustrie." in Christian Settipani and Katharine S. B. Keats-Rohan, Onomastique et Parenté dans l'Occident médiéval. 2000.
