Louis the Stammerer Becomes King of Aquitaine…
866 CE
Louis the Stammerer Becomes King of Aquitaine (866)
In 866, Louis the Stammerer, the eldest son of Charles the Bald and Ermentrude of Orléans, assumes the kingship of Aquitaine, following the death of his younger brother, Charles the Child. This marks an important moment in the succession struggles of West Francia, as Louis moves closer to inheriting his father’s throne.
The Succession in Aquitaine
- Charles the Bald had designated his younger son, Charles the Child, as King of Aquitaine, but his early death in 866 leaves the kingdom without a ruler.
- Louis the Stammerer, though already an adult, had not previously been granted a kingdom, making this his first major title.
- By succeeding in Aquitaine, Louis strengthens his position as heir to the throne of West Francia, though his health remains frail throughout his life.
Challenges Facing Louis the Stammerer
- His reign in Aquitaine is overshadowed by Viking raids, particularly along the Loire and Seine rivers.
- He faces internal noble rivalries, as local lords exercise increasing autonomy amid the Carolingian decline.
- His relationship with his father, Charles the Bald, remains uneasy, as Charles continues to rule West Francia without giving his son much independent authority.
The Path to Kingship of West Francia
- In 877, upon Charles the Bald’s death, Louis will inherit the crown of West Francia, though his rule will be short and troubled.
- His accession marks the continuing fragmentation of Carolingian power, as West Francia struggles with feudal decentralization and external threats.
Though Louis the Stammerer’s reign in Aquitaine is relatively brief, it serves as a stepping stone to his eventual kingship of West Francia, where he will struggle to maintain control over his father’s weakening empire.
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