Roger I Trencavel facts for kids
Roger I Trencavel (died 1150) was an important ruler in medieval France. He was the eldest son of Bernard Ato IV, who was a Viscount (a type of noble ruler) over several areas like Albi, Béziers, and Carcassonne. When his father passed away in 1130, Roger inherited the lands of Albi, Carcassonne, and Razès. His younger brothers, Raymond and Bernard Ato V, inherited other parts of their father's lands.
Roger I was part of the powerful Trencavel family. He ruled his lands from Carcassonne.
Roger's Rule and Government
Roger I was the first Trencavel ruler to use special helpers called vicars. These vicars were like local managers. They helped Roger manage his lands and deal with daily business. He chose these helpers from people he trusted in his court. He also picked people from outside the areas they would manage. Even with these helpers, the way the Trencavel family governed was still quite new and simple during Roger's time.
Roger and the Crusades
Roger I was a strong supporter of the Knights Templar. This was a famous group of warrior monks. He gave them many gifts and lands. He was also a passionate Crusader. This means he took part in the religious wars of that time.
In 1133, Roger gave the village of Brucafel to the Knights Templar. He hoped this would bring good fortune to him and his family. In July 1147, Roger decided to join the Second Crusade. To help fund his journey, he gave the village of Campagne-sur-Aude to the Templars. In return, they helped him pay off a large debt. Roger also made sure the Templars did not have to pay taxes on any of his lands. He left for the Crusade from Agde later in 1147.
Marriages and Succession
Roger I first married a woman named Alazais of Pons and Saintonge. They did not have any children. Roger married again in 1139 to Bernarda of Comminges. However, he still did not have any children.
Roger I passed away in 1150. Since he had no children, his brother Raymond took over his lands. This was decided by an agreement made in 1132. Raymond inherited Carcassonne, Albi, and Razès. His other brother, Bernard Ato, argued over the land of Agde. In the end, Agde was divided between the two surviving brothers.
