William IV, Duke of Aquitaine facts for kids

William IV (born 937, died 3 February 994) was an important ruler in France. He was known as Fierebras, which means "Proud Arm." He served as the Duke of Aquitaine and Count of Poitou from 963 until 990. In 990, he decided to retire from his duties.

Who Was William IV?

William IV was born in 937. His father was William III, Duke of Aquitaine, who was also a duke. William III chose to give up his power and live in a monastery. This meant William IV took over the government of Aquitaine.

William's Family

• His mother was Gerloc, whose father was Duke Rollo of Normandy.
• William had a sister named Adelaide. She married Hugh Capet, who later became the King of France.
• Interestingly, William later fought against his brother-in-law, King Hugh Capet, to protect his duchy.

Early Years as Duke

William's time as duke started with many battles. He often fought against the powerful counts of Anjou. One of his first conflicts was against Geoffrey Greymantle. Geoffrey had taken control of a town called Loudun, which William wanted back.

Conflicts with the King

In 988, William went to war with the new king of France, Hugh Capet. William did not want to recognize Hugh as the rightful king. King Hugh Capet had been given control of Aquitaine by a previous king, King Lothair.

The Invasion of Aquitaine

King Hugh Capet decided to claim Aquitaine for himself and invaded the region in 988. However, the royal army was defeated by William's forces. This battle took place on the plains of the Loire Valley.

Supporting the Old Royal Family

William IV also offered protection to a young boy named Louis. Louis was the son of Charles, Duke of Lower Lorraine. Charles was the last true heir from the Carolingian royal family, who had ruled France before Hugh Capet. William welcomed Louis into his palace of Poitiers and treated him like a prince. He believed Louis was the real heir to the French throne.

William's Marriage and Retirement

In 968, William married Emma. She was the daughter of Theobald I of Blois. Their marriage was not always easy.

Emma's Influence

William was very interested in hunting wild animals. After some time, William decided to retire to a monastery, just like his father had done. He left Emma in charge of Aquitaine. Emma then ruled the duchy for their son, William, until the year 1004.

William and Emma's Children

William and Emma had two sons:

• William V, who later became Duke.
• Ebles, who passed away sometime after 997.

See also

• Dukes of Aquitaine family tree