Charles I of Pracht

Charles I (c. 1280 - 1342) was a monarch of the House of Hochberg, ruling as King of Pracht from 1310 after he won the war of the succession of Brabant against the forces of the Duke of Burgundy, Hugh V.

His reign was known for the foundation of the Kingdom of Pracht and the show of strength and might to reaffirm the new Kingdom's position as a sovereign state in medieval Europe, a time of heavy conflict and violence. One of the most documented things about Charles' reign is his antagonizing of France. It resulted in war with Philippe VI le Fortune de France, resulting in territorial gains for the newly founded Kingdom of Pracht.

Early Life - Duke of Brabant
Charles was born around 1280 in Brussels to the Duke and Duchess of Brabant, Burgundian nobles. Charles had a pleasurable upbringing, his father being a well-respected military commander had Charles taught in military affairs which in the future would make him an excellent military commander in the future, which would assist with the annexation of Brabant to form the Kingdom of Pracht in 1310.

Charles' family was German descended and thus spoke German as their primary language to keep in touch with their roots. It is unknown when exactly Charles became Duke of Brabant, but it is believed to be some time around the year 1300. Charles had a difficult relationship with the Duke of Burgundy, with disputes over territory in Brabant causing growing tensions. Charles was, however, well beloved by the people of Brabant for keeping order in the territory through strong military show of power. Charles continued to antagonize Burgundy for freedom from their so-called draconian laws.

In 1308, Charles attempted to declare his independence from Burgundy, but nothing came from this claim. Charles once again laid claim to an independent Brabant in 1309, kicking of the War of the Succession of Brabant which would drag on for 1 year. The Duke of Burgundy, Hugh V, was unwilling to lose his land and wished to implement a new Duke of Brabant, taking away the territory from the traditional House of Hochberg, rulers of Brabant for over 200 years. After a series of battles, Charles defeated the forces of the Duke of Burgundy on August 20th, 1310.

Personal Reign - His Royal Majesty, the King
Charles declared the Kingdom of Pracht on August 25th, 1310 and became the first ever King of Pracht. There were months of triumph and celebration

[WIP]