William III, Duke of Aquitaine facts for kids

William III (born 913 – died April 3, 963) was an important ruler in medieval France. He was known as Towhead because of his hair color. William was the Count of Poitou starting in 935 and later became the Duke of Aquitaine in 962. He also ruled as the Count of Auvergne from 950.

William was the son of Ebalus Manzer and Emilienne. He was born in Poitiers. When his father died, William claimed the title of Duke of Aquitaine. However, the king's government did not officially recognize him as duke until just a year before William's own death.

William's Early Challenges and Conflicts

After King Rudolph died in 936, William had to give up some of his land to a powerful noble named Hugh the Great. This happened because King Louis IV made him do it. William accepted this, but his relationship with Hugh became difficult after that.

In 950, Hugh the Great and King Louis IV became friends again. King Louis then gave Hugh the right to rule the duchies of Burgundy and Aquitaine. Hugh tried to take Aquitaine with the king's help, but William was strong and defeated them.

Dealing with Kings and Powerful Nobles

Later, King Lothair, who followed Louis IV, was worried about how powerful William had become. In August 955, King Lothair joined Hugh the Great to attack Poitiers, a city William controlled. Poitiers was well-defended and did not fall. However, William fought a battle outside the city and was defeated.

After Hugh the Great died, his son Hugh Capet was named Duke of Aquitaine. But Hugh Capet never actually tried to take control of Aquitaine. This was because William made peace with King Lothair.

William was also given control of the abbey of Saint-Hilaire-le-Grand. This important religious place stayed under his family's control even after he died. He also built a library in the palace of Poitiers, showing his interest in learning.

William's Family Life

William's father, Duke Ebles Manzer, was already middle-aged when William was born around 913. William married a woman named Geirlaug, who was also known as Adèle. She was the daughter of Rollo of Normandy, a famous Viking leader. Some historical records suggest their marriage happened around 936.

William and Gerloc had at least two children:

• William: He became Duke of Aquitaine after his father. Later, he gave up his title to live in a monastery and let his own son rule.
• Adelaide: She married Hugh Capet, who later became the King of France.

See also

In Spanish: Guillermo III de Aquitania para niños

• Dukes of Aquitaine family tree