Roger de Breteuil, 2nd Earl of Hereford facts for kids

Roger de Breteuil, 2nd Earl of Hereford (born 1056 – died after 1087) was an important figure in English history. He became the Earl of Hereford and inherited his father's lands in England in 1071. His father was William Fitzosbern, 1st Earl of Hereford. Roger is mostly remembered for his part in a major event called the Revolt of the Earls.

The Earls' Rebellion: A Royal Challenge

Roger de Breteuil did not get along well with King William the Conqueror. In 1075, Roger decided to marry his sister, Emma, to Ralph Guader, Earl of Norfolk. King William had forbidden this marriage. Roger ignored the king's order.

Right after the wedding, Roger and Ralph, along with another earl, started a rebellion. This event is known as the Revolt of the Earls. Roger planned to bring his army from the west to meet Ralph's forces. However, Roger's army was stopped at the River Severn. Local English forces, led by Bishop Wulfstan of Worcestershire, and some Norman leaders like Walter de Lacy, prevented Roger from moving forward.

Archbishop Lanfranc of Canterbury was very close to Roger, almost like a father. He sent Roger many messages, asking him to stop his rebellious actions. Roger did not listen to these warnings. Because he continued to rebel, Roger was officially removed from the church, a process called excommunication.

What Happened Next: Trial and Freedom

When the rebellion failed, Roger was put on trial for treason. This means he was accused of betraying the king. The trial took place before the Great Council, a group of important leaders.

In 1075, Roger was found guilty. He lost all his lands and his title as Earl of Hereford. He was also sentenced to be imprisoned forever. Two other earls, Ralph Breton and Waltheof, 1st Earl of Northumberland, were also accused of being part of the plot.

However, Roger did not stay in prison forever. When King William I died in 1087, Roger was released. Many other political prisoners were also set free at that time.

Roger's Family Life

It is not known if Roger de Breteuil ever married. However, he did have two sons named Reginald and Roger. They lived during the time of King Henry I of England. People described them as promising young men.

Despite their potential, Roger's sons were not allowed to inherit his lands. This has led to some historical discussions about whether they were considered legitimate heirs. Reginald fitz Count, Roger's son, later married Emmeline de Ballon. She was the daughter and heiress of Hamelin de Ballon. Reginald held land through her inheritance. Their family later used the name de Ballon and became important lords in a place called Much Marcle.

See also

• French entry for "Roger de Breteuil"