Charles the Simple (Charles III of France, l. 879-929 CE, r. 893-923 CE) was king of West Francia (roughly modern-day France) toward the end of the period of Viking raids in the region. His epithet `the simple' refers to his habit of being straightforward and honest, not simple-minded or slow. He is featured in the TV series Vikings where his character is played by Canadian actor Lothaire Bluteau.
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Definition
Timeline
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879 - 929Life of Charles the Simple (Charles III of France).
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893 - 923Reign of Charles the Simple in Kingdom of West Francia.
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907Charles the Simple marries Freduruna of Lotharingia; further involvement in Kingdom of Lotharingia's affairs.
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c. 907 - c. 917Freduruna's relative Hagano becomes Charles the Simple' nearly exclusive counselor.
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911Treaty of Saint Clair sur Epte between Charles the Simple and Rollo; establishes Normandy, ends Viking raids on the Seine.
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917Freduruna dies; Hagano's influence continues at Charles the Simple' court.
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919Marriage of Charles the Simple to Eadgifu of Wessex.
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920Birth of Charles the Simple's and Eadgifu's son Louis (later Louis IV of France).
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922Charles the Simple's reign challenged by Robert I.
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923Battle of Soissons between forces of Charles the Simple and Robert I; Robert's forces victorious.
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923 - 929Charles the Simple is imprisoned.
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929Death of Charles the Simple, King of West Francia.
