The Vikings in Gaul
Gaul is a region in Western Europe that consists of Belgium, Italy, France, Switzerland, as well as the Netherlands and Germany. During the Viking raids in Gaul, there are three parts making up the lands, which were controlled by Charles the Bald: East Francia, Western Francia and Middle Francia. This is the France that you know today.
Western Francia, or Gaul, is the one that is most affected by the Viking raids during this period of the Viking Age. East Francia and Middle Francia were not as severely attacked as Gaul.
The Viking raids in Gaul resulted to the destruction of the Carolingian Empire in the 9th century. To help prevent the invasion of the Vikings in his kingdom, Charles the Bald, the first king of Grance, enforced the "Edict of Pistres".
This edict is one of the few times when Charles the Bald, known for his lousy military decisions and bad governance, proved that he is capable of making good decisions for his people.
The Edict of Pristes indicates that the city of Gaul and its countryside should be protected from Viking warriors. Charles the Bald wanted the Vikings defeated, and he tried to do so by signing this edict that aims to defeat the Vikings and prevent Gaul from experiencing future attacks.
Charles the Bald built an army of men whom he can call for during a Viking attack. He also ordered for the building of bridges on the rivers and towns of Gaol. During that time, the sight of a Viking ship is enough to send the people fleeing, that is why he wanted to prevent the war ships from sailing across.Most of the Vikings attack in Gaul landed from 864 to 865 A.D.
Original Authors: Jennifer Tumanda
Edit Update Authors: Ryan Norfolk
Updated On: 13/02/2007
