Swabia was one of the four original provinces of Germany, covering the territory which later split into the French province of Alsace, the German principalities of Baden and Württemberg, and most of northern Switzerland. It evolved along different lines from the more centralised province of Bavaria and the larger but more fragmented province of Saxony. Originally known as Alemannia, the Alemans were defeated by the Merovingian Franks under King Clovis at the end of the 5th century and by the reign of King Theoderic I were under Frankish overlordship. However, the local rulers were able to preserve semi-autonomy, a situation which was not tolerated by the later Merovingians and early Carolingians, who launched a series of military campaigns against Alemannia in 709, 712, 743 and 746/47. During the last of these, the Alemannic dukes were deposed and a large part of the Alemannic nobility killed at Canstatt, near Stuttgart[1], following which the territory was ruled by Warin and Ruthard on behalf of Pepin and Charles "Martel"[2].

During the succeeding years, the territory was never united under a single ruler: the Etichonid family ruled in Alsace, while the Alaholfing dynasty ruled in the valleys of the upper Danube and Neckar rivers. This presumably explains why Alemannia failed to retain its national identity after the Frankish takeover, in contrast to Bavaria[3]. Swabia was revived as a separate political entity in the early 10th century, coinciding with the significant decline in central Carolingian authority and the revival of the duchy of Bavaria. The title used by the early Hunfriding rulers in Swabia is uncertain. A 903 diploma of Ludwig IV "das Kind" King of Germany refers to the first Hunfriding ruler Burkhard as "marchio Curiensis Rætiæ", indicating the creation of a short-lived march in what is now northern Switzerland. Other contemporary sources give him the more general titles of "comes et princeps Alamannorum" and "dux". It is unlikely that either of these latter titles was officially sanctioned by the kings/emperors, as contemporary imperial diplomas give the title comes to Burchard. Development of an autonomous Swabian duchy was delayed by the rebellions of Burkhard [I] in 911 and of his son Burkhard [II] in 914, although the latter is given the title dux at a later date in contemporary sources. The new duchy appears to have been firmly established by 926 when Heinrich I King of Germany installed Hermann [Konradiner] as duke. This was the first direct intervention by the central regal authority in ducal appointments in Germany, but became the accepted pattern during the rest of the 10th century with dukedoms such as Swabia being treated by the king like an office, the title being awarded and removed with regularity depending on the loyalty of the office-holder. During the following 150 years, the dukes of Swabia were chosen from ten different dynasties, with the Hunriding and Konradiner families being the only ones which provided Swabian rulers over three consecutive generations.

The decline in the central authority of the dukes of Swabia probably dates from the investiture crisis involving Heinrich IV King of Germany, which resulted in the election of a series of anti-kings. The election of rival kings was mirrored in the appointment of rival dukes in Swabia, with the authority of duke Berthold von Rheinfelden being challenged by Friedrich von Hohenstaufen in 1079, and the latter's authority being challenged in turn in 1092 by duke Berthold [Zähringen]. Although the Staufen duke prevailed on the latter occasion, his Zähringen rival was compensated by recognition of his personal title of duke, which was also transmitted to his descendants. This represented the first time in which two individuals both peaceably held the title dux at any one time in any of the original German provinces. The significance is heightened by the fact that the dux was traditionally the sole military as well as political leader in each province. For Swabia, therefore, the presence of two dukes within the province was a significant change, although the difference would probably have remained symbolic if it had not been for other factors which accelerated the decline in the power of the Swabian dukes. Foremost was a third ducal presence in Swabia. In 1096, the Welf family established themselves definitively as dukes of Bavaria. However, their original powerbase was Swabia where they were still major landowners and where contemporary sources such as necrologies show that they also used the title dux. At the same time, the Staufen dukes were widening their horizon of activity away from Swabia. Although they took their name from the Swabian castle of Staufen, the family acquired extensive property in Franconia, bequeathed to Duke Friedrich II by his maternal uncle Emperor Heinrich V. The election of Konrad von Staufen as Konrad III King of Germany in 1138, and that of his nephew as King Friedrich I "Barbarossa" in 1152, signalled the family's definitive removal from the provincial Swabian field of activity to the national. Members of the Staufen family held the title Duke of Swabia until the last male heir Konradin was beheaded in 1268, but it is clear that these were largely honorific appointments. Contemporary sources reveal little direct involvement by these successor dukes in Swabian government. During the dispute between Konrad IV King of Germany and the papal party, with Willem II Count of Holland as its figurehead and anti-king, Swabia was largely anti-Staufen.

The reaction against Staufen control enabled the local Swabian nobility to assert their autonomy. The duchy of Swabia virtually disappeared as a territorial unit and dissolved into a collection of territorial fragments[4]. A further difficulty for Swabia was the transfer of parts of its territory, particularly in Alsace, to neighbouring jurisdictions such as the kingdom of Burgundy and the duchy of Upper Lotharingia (Lorraine).

Religious administration in Swabia centred on the archbishopric of Mainz, established by the Carolingians in 747, which also covered large areas in Saxony and Franconia. The bishoprics within the Swabian sector of the province were Augsburg (whose jurisdiction also included part of Bavaria), Konstanz, Chur and Strasbourg, all dating from the late 8th or early 9th centuries. The bishopric of Basel fell within the province of Besançon in the neighbouring kingdom of Burgundy. The bishoprics of Basel and Strasbourg were responsible for Alsace, Augsburg covered eastern Swabia, while the bishopric of Konstanz covered the area to the south-east, and Chur covered part of present-day Switzerland[5].

Chapter 1. DUKES of ALEMANNIA

The territory of Alemannia was invaded by the Merovingian Franks but was able to preserve semi-autonomy. The dukes of Alemannia were finally vanquished by Pippin III who placed Alemannia in the hands of Counts Ruthard and Warin[6]. After the death of Charles "Martel", the territory rebelled against the Franks, but maior domus Carloman laid waste to Alemannia in 742[7]. The family relationship between the early dukes of Alemannia has not been confirmed by the primary sources so far consulted. The Alemannian dukes are frequently referred to as "Etichonen". Any connection between them and the Etichonen noble family in Alsace has not yet been identified.

1. LIUTFRED (-587 or after). Duke of Alemannia. Fredegar records that "Leudefredus Alamnnorum dux" incited the wrath of Guntram King of the Franks and that "Uncelenus dux" was appointed in his place, dated to 587 as the text is placed after a passage dealing with the 28th year of the king's reign[8].

2. UNCELENUS (-after 587). Duke of Alemannia 587, installed by Guntram King of the Franks. Fredegar records that "Leudefredus Alamnnorum dux" incited the wrath of Guntram King of the Franks and that "Uncelenus dux" was appointed in his place, dated to 587 as the text is placed after a passage dealing with the 28th year of the king's reign[9].

3. CUNZO (-after 613). Duke of Alemannia. m ---. The name of Cunzo's wife is not known. Cunzo & his wife had one child:

a) FRIDBURGA (-after 613). The Vita Galli names "Cunzonem ducem…filia eius unica Fridiburga" recording that she was "Sigoboto filio Theodorichi disponsata"[10]. Betrothed (613) to SIGEBERT II King of the Franks, illegitimate son of THEODERIC II King of the Franks & his mistress --- ([602/03]-murdered 613).

4. LIUTHAR (-after [643]). Duke of Alemannia. Fredegar records that "Leuthario duci Alamannorum" killed "Otto quidam filius Urones domestici", who who had rebelled against maiordomus Grimoald, in the 10th year of the reign of King Sigebert[11].

5. --- . Duke of Alamannia. The identity of this Alamannian duke is not known. m --- of Friulia, daughter of GISULF II Duke of Friulia & his wife Romilda --- (before 610-). Paulus Diaconus names "una Appa alia Gaila…duarum vero nomina non retinemus" as the daughters of "Gisulfus Foroiulanus dux", recording that one later married "Alamannorum regi, alia…Baioariorum principi", without specifying which[12].

6. WILLICHAR (-after 709). Duke of Alamannia. The Passio Desiderii et Reginfredi names "dux…Willicharius" in "Alamannorum ad locum…Mortunaugia"[13]. The Annales Sancti Maximini Trevirensis record that in 709 "Pippinus perrexit in Alemanniam contra Willarium ducem"[14].

7. GOTTFRIED (-709). Duke of Alamannia. "Godafridus dux" donated "Biberburg um vicum ad Neccarum" to the monastery of St Gallen by charter dated 708[15]. The Annales Alammanici record the death of "Gotefrid" in 709[16]. m ---. The name of Gottfried's wife is not known. Gottfried & his wife had three children:

a) LANTFRID (-730, 741 or 751). The Annales Petaviani record that Charles "Martel" travelled to "Suavis contra Lantfridum" in 730[17]. "Lanfrido filio Godofrido" produced the first recorded Swabian Law code[18]. Duke of Alamannia. The Annales Alammanici record the death of "Lantfridus" in 730[19]. The Annales Moselleni record the death in 751 of "Lantfridus"[20].

b) HUOCHING . Thegan's Vita Hludowici Imperatoris names "Gotefridus dux" as father of "Huochingus"[21]. m ---. The name of Huoching's wife is not known. Huoching & his wife had one child:

i) NEBE [Hnabi] . "Nebe" son of "Huochingus" is named by Thegan[22]. m HERESWINT, daughter of --- & his wife [Williswint] ---. Hereswint is named as wife of Nebe[23]. Nebe & his wife had two children:

(a) RUODPERT [Robert] (-[785]). The primary source which confirms his parentage has not yet been identified. m ---. The name of Ruodpert's wife is not known. Ruodpert & his wife had one child:

(1) ERBIO (-after 788). Erbio son of Robert made a donation to Wissembourg by charter dated 788[24]. m ---. The name of Erbio's wife is not known. Erbio & his wife had two children:

a. UDO (-after 808). Udo and Eugenia, children of Erbio, made a donation to Wissembourg by charter dated 808[25].

b. EUGENIA (-after 808). Udo and Eugenia, children of Erbio, made a donation to Wissembourg by charter dated 808[26].

(b) IMMA . "Imma" daughter of "Nebe" is named by Thegan[27]. Her marriage is suggested by Thegan's Vita Hludowici Imperatoris which names "Hildigardam [wife of Charles I King of the Franks] quæ erat de cognatione Gotefridi ducis Alamannorum" and specifies that she was Imma's daughter[28]. The Annales Alamannici record the death in 798 of "Imma"[29]. m GEROLD Graf im Kraichgau [Udalrichinger], son of ---.

c) THEOTBALD (-after 745). The Annales Metenses names "Teobaldo, filio Godefridi ducis Alamannorum" when recording his 745 rebellion which was suppressed by Pepin, and his seeking refuge the following year with "Odilonis" [Duke of Bavaria][30]. The Annales Nazariani record "Theotbaldus in Alsacian" in 745[31].

8. HAISTULF (-755). The Annales Alammanici record the death of "Haistulfus" in 755[32].

Chapter 2. HERZOGEN von SCHWABEN (HUNFRIDING)

BURKHARD I 909-911, BURKHARD II 917-926, BURKHARD III 954-973

BURKHARD [I], son of ADALBERT [II] "der Erlauchte" Graf im Thurgau [Hunfridinger] & his wife --- (-killed in battle [5 Nov] 911). The primary source which confirms his parentage has not yet been identified. Markgraf in Rätien 891/911. "Hludowicus…rex" confirmed privileges to Kloster St Gallen by charter dated 24 Jun 903 in which among "fidelium nostrum" was listed "Purchart marchio Curiensis Rætiæ"[33]. "Hludowicus…rex" confirmed an exchange of properties between Kloster Fulda and Kloster Echternach after consulting "fidelium nostrorum comitum vero Kebeharti, Liutpoldi, Burcharti, Eginonis, Liutfredi, Iringi et Cunpoldi" by charter dated 19 Mar 907[34]. "Hludowicus…rex" donated property "in pago Palanichoge in comitatu Egenonis in loco Ingilinstat" to Hatto Archbishop of Mainz after consulting "fidelium nostrorum comitum vero Burchardi, Egenonis et Ysaac" by charter dated 8 Jun 908[35]. [Duke of Swabia]. Herimannus records the death in 911 of "Burchardus dux Alamanniæ…orto tumultu occisus est"[36]. The Annales Alamannicorum record that "Purghart comes et princeps Alamannorum" was killed in 911 by "Anshelmo"[37].

m ---. The name of Burkhard's wife is not known.

Burkhard [I] & his wife had three children:

1. ULRICH (-30 Sep ----). The Annales Alamannicorum name (in order) "Purchardo et Uodalricho" as sons of "Purghart comes et princeps Alamannorum" specifying that they were expelled from Swabia when their father was killed in 911[38]. Graf im Zürichgau 902/[914/15]. Graf im Thurgau 912/17.

2. BURKHARD [II] (-murdered Novara 28/29 Apr 926). The Annales Alamannicorum name (in order) "Purchardo et Uodalricho" as sons of "Purghart comes et princeps Alamannorum" specifying that they were expelled from Swabia when their father was killed in 911[39]. The Annales Alamannicorum record the rebellion against the king of "Burchardus iunior" in 914[40]. He succeeded in 917 as BURKHARD II Duke of Swabia. "Heinricus…rex" granted property to "in pago Hegouue in eodem comitatu [Burchardi]…in loco Siginga" to "Baboni…comitis Burchardi vassallo" after consultation with "Burchardi, Ebarhardi, Chuonradi, Heinrici atque Utonis…comitum" by charter dated 30 Nov 920[41]. It is not certain that "Burchardi" refers to the duke of Swabia, although the charter is dated during the period during which the title dux was not consistently used in contemporary documentation and no other Burkhard has yet been identified to whom it can refer. He was killed during an expedition to northern Italy in support of his son-in-law Rudolf King of Burgundy[42]. Herimannus records that "Burghardus dux" was killed in 926[43]. The Annales Sangallenses specify that he was killed in Italy[44]. m (before 911) as her first husband, REGINLIND, daughter of [EBERHARD [I] Graf im Zürichgau] & his wife Gisela --- (-Ufenau Island 958 after 29 Apr). The Annales Alamannicorum record that "Gisle…socrui Purchardi iunioris" donated all her property to St Peter's in 911[45]. Regino records that "viduam Burchardi" married "Herimanno"[46]. She married secondly Hermann I Duke of Swabia [Konradiner]. The Liber Anniversariorum of Einsiedeln records in Aug the donation of "Stevegeia, Kaltbrunnen et Lindowa" by "domina Regelinda cum filio suo Burcardo duce"[47]. "Otto…rex" granted property "in pago Zuriggaui in comitatu Liudonis commitis" to "Erig" at the request of "Regilinde…comitisse" by charter dated 10 Mar 952[48]. "Otto…rex" donated property "in pago Engrisgouue in comitatu Uualtbrahtti in loco…Uuidhergis" to "matrone fidelique nostre Reginlind" at the request of "Burghardi ducis" by charter dated 29 Apr 958[49]. Duke Burkhard II & his wife had three children:

a) BURKHARD [III] (-12 Nov 973, bur Reichenau Island). His parentage is proved by the Liber Anniversariorum of Einsiedeln which records the donation by "domina Regelinda cum filio suo Burcardo duce"[50]. He was installed in 954 as BURKHARD III Duke of Swabia after the duchy was confiscated from Liudolf, son of Otto I King of Germany. "Otto…rex" donated property "in ducatu Alamannico in comitatu Burchardi ducis Durgeuue…in villa Askinza" which had been confiscated from "Gundranmus comes" to Kloster Einsiedeln by charter dated 6 Jan 958[51]. "Otto…rex" donated property "in pago Engrisgouue in comitatu Uualtbrahtti in loco…Uuidhergis" to "matrone fidelique nostre Reginlind" at the request of "Burghardi ducis" by charter dated 29 Apr 958[52]. Herimannus records the death in 973 of "Purghardus dux Alamanniæ" and his burial "in capella sancti Erasmi"[53]. The Liber Anniversariorum of Einsiedeln records the death in Nov of "Burkardus dux iunior", recalling his donation "cum matre Regelinda" (see above)[54]. The necrology of St Gall records the death "II Id Nov" of "Uodalrici Purchardi ducis Alamannorum"[55]. m HEDWIG of Bavaria, daughter of HEINRICH I Duke of Bavaria [Ottonen] & his wife Judith of Bavaria [Liutpoldinger] (-26 Jul 994). The Casus Monasterii Petrishusensis records a donation by "Burchardus religios dux et Hadiwich eius coniunx", recording that they founded a monastery "in monte Duello"[56]. Her parentage is deduced from the Vita Oudalrici which records that the mother of the wife of "Purchardo duce Alamannorum" was "filiam materteræ" of "Heinricus filius Purchardi comitis" who was installed as Bishop of Augsburg in 973[57]. "Otto…rex" donated land "Scaleia…in pago Brisggouue in comitatu Birhtilonis" to the church at Worms by charter dated 18 Jun 990 on the petition of "Hadeuige ducis nostræ…consanguineæ"[58]. The Annales Einsidlenses record the death in 994 of "Hadewig dux"[59]. "Otto…rex" confirmed a donation of "villis Bosinga, Messinga, Ancencimbra, Harthusa, Vrsilinga in pago Para et in comitatu Hiltibaldi comitis" to Kloster St Gregor, Petershausen by "bone memorie domine Hadewige ducis" by charter dated 4 Nov 994[60]. "Otto…rex" donated property "Nuzbach…in pago Mordenouua et in comitiatu Cuononis comitis" to Kloster Waldkirch naming "bone memorie Burghardi Alemannorum ducis…sueque contectalis Haduuuige" by charter dated 22 Dec 994[61].

b) ADALRICH (-after 973). The primary source which confirms his parentage has not yet been identified.

c) BERTA (-after 2 Jan 966). Liutprand names "Bertam Suevorum ducis Bruchardi filiam" as wife of "Rodulfus rex Burgundionibus"[62]. The Annales Sangallenses record the marriage in 922 of "filiam Purchardi ducis" and "Ruodolfus rex"[63]. "Berta matre nostra" is named in the charter of "Chuonradus rex" dated 8 Apr 962[64]. Luitprand records the marriage of "Burgundionum rex Rodulfus…viduam Bertam" to King Ugo[65]. m firstly (922) RUDOLF II King of Upper Burgundy, son of RUDOLF I King of Upper Burgundy & his wife Willa [de Vienne] (-937). m secondly (12 Dec 937) as his fourth wife, UGO King of Italy, son of THEOTBALD Comte d'Arles & his wife Berta of Lotharingia [Carolingian] ([880]-10 Apr 947).

3. DIETPIRCH (-17 or 22 Mar after 923, bur Wittislingen). Dietpirch is named as wife of Hupald in the Vita S. Oudalrici[66]. Herimannus names "Dietpirch" as daughter of "Burchardus dux" and wife of "Hartmannus comes"[67]. The Vita b. Hucbaldi names "Theobergam, filiam Burcardi ducis Sueviæ de genere Veringarum" as wife of "Hucbaldus", specifying that she brought Dillingen to her husband[68]. The necrology of Neresheim records the death "XVI Kal Apr" of "Dietpirga com mater s Udalrici"[69]. The necrology of Ottenburen records the death "XI Kal Apr" of "Dietpirc mater s Uodalrici ep"[70]. m HUPOLD, son of HARTMANN & his wife --- (-16 Jul [909], bur Wittislingen). "Hupaldus" is shown as son of "Hartmannus comes" and husband of "Dietpirch".

Chapter 3. HERZOGEN von SCHWABEN (KONRADINER)

HERMANN I 926-949

HERMANN, son of GEBHARD Graf im oberen Rheingau [Konradiner] & his wife Hidda --- (-10 Dec 949, bur Reichenau Island). Regino names "duobus filiis suis [=Gebeardus comes] …pueris Udone et Herimanno" when recording their father's death fighting the Hungarians in 910[71]. Graf 914-915. He was installed in 926 as HERMANN I Duke of Swabia by Heinrich I King of Germany after the murder of Duke Burkhard II[72]. "Otto…rex" granted property to Waldo Bishop of Chur at the request of "Herimanni…ducis Sueuorum" by charter dated 8 Apr 940[73]. "Otto…rex" granted property "locis Tiuoningovue et Tuzinhusa…in Alamannia" to Kloster Kempten at the request of "fratris nostri Brunonis et Herimanni ducis" by charter dated 18 Jan 943[74]. "Otto…rex" confirmed the immunities of Kloster Essen including over land "excepta in loco Ruoldinghus quam Eggihart et eius coniunx Rikilt" possessed by hereditary right and in land "in comitatu Ecberti et Cobbonis" by charter dated 15 Jan 947, signed by "Heinrici fratris regis, Herimanni ducis, Cuonradi comitis, Erenfridi comitis, Gebehardi comitis, Ekkihardi comitis, Hugonis comitis"[75]. "Otto…rex" granted rights to Kloster St Gallen at the request of "Herimanni ducis Sueuorum" by charter dated 12 Jun 947[76]. "Otto…rex" granted property "in comitatu Herimanni ducis Rehzia" to "abbati nostro Hartberto" at the request of "filie nostre Ite…et Hermanni comitis" by charter dated 7 Apr 948[77]. "Otto…rex" granted property to the church of Cambrai at the request of "germani nostri Brunonis et Cuonradi ducis atque Herimanni ducis" by charter dated 30 Apr 948[78]. "Otto…rex" confirmed the possession of Abtei Süsteren by Kloster Prüm by charter dated 1 Jun 949, signed by "Cuonradus dux, Herimannus dux, Hezzo comes, Godefridus comes, Rudolfus comes, Reginherus comes"[79]. Regino records the death "949 IV Id Dec" of "Herimannus dux"[80]. The necrology of St Gall records the death "IV Id Dec" of "Herimanni ducis Alamannorum"[81]. The year is confirmed by the charter dated 1 Jan 950 under which "Otto…rex" confirmed a donation by "Liutolfo nostro filio eiusque…coniuge Ita" to Kloster Reichenau for the soul of "ducis nostri beate memorie Herimanni"[82].

m (926) as her second husband, REGINLIND, widow of BURKHARD II Duke of Swabia, daughter of [EBERHARD II Graf im Zürichgau] & his wife Gisela --- (-Ufenau Island 958 after 29 Apr). The Annales Alamannicorum record that "Gisle…socrui Purchardi iunioris" donated all her property to St Peter's in 911[83]. Regino records that "viduam Burchardi" married "Herimanno"[84]. The Liber Anniversariorum of Einsiedeln records in Aug the donation of "Stevegeia, Kaltbrunnen et Lindowa" by "domina Regelinda cum filio suo Burcardo duce"[85]. "Otto…rex" granted property "in pago Zuriggaui in comitatu Liudonis commitis" to "Erig" at the request of "Regilinde…comitisse" by charter dated 10 Mar 952[86]. "Otto…rex" donated property "in pago Engrisgouue in comitatu Uualtbrahtti in loco…Uuidhergis" to "matrone fidelique nostre Reginlind" at the request of "Burghardi ducis" by charter dated 29 Apr 958[87].

Duke Hermann & his wife had one child:

1. IDA (-17 May 986). Widukind names "ducis Herimanni filiam Idam" as wife of Liudolf[88]. Regino records the marriage of "filiam Herimanni ducis" and "Liutolfus filius regis" in 947[89]. "Otto…rex" confirmed a donation by "Liutolfo nostro filio eiusque…coniuge Ita" to Kloster Reichenau for the soul of "ducis nostri beate memorie Herimanni" by charter dated 1 Jan 950[90]. The Liber Anniversariorum of Einsiedeln records in May the donation of "Siernza" by "domina Ita…uxor Luitolfi ducis"[91]. m ([27 Oct 947/7 Apr 948][92]) LIUDOLF [of Saxony], son of OTTO I "dem Großen" King of Germany & his first wife Eadgyth of Wessex (930[93]-Piomba 6 Sep 957, bur St Alban, near Mainz). His father installed him as LIUDOLF Duke of Swabia in 950, in succession to his father-in-law[94]. He was deposed in 954.

KONRAD I 983-997, HERMANN II 997-1003, HERMANN III 1003-1012

KONRAD [Kuno] von Öhningen, son of [KONRAD Graf im Rheingau und in der Ortenau & his wife [Judith ---] or UDO Graf in der Wetterau & his wife [Cunegundis] de Vermandois] (-20 Aug 997). The question of the paternity of Duke Konrad is discussed in the document FRANCONIA. Thietmar names "Conradus Suevorum ductor…eiusdem frater Heribertus comes" when recording their deaths[95]. "Otto…imperator augustus" granted property by the spurious charter dated 13 Jan 965 to the church of Oehningen, built according to the document by "domnus Chono comes de Oningen" with the consent of "uxoris sui Richlinde, filiorumque eius Eggeberti, Luipoldi, Chononis, Lutoldi"[96], although as shown below this list of the couple's sons appears unreliable. The Chronicon Salernitanum records that "comes Alemannorum Saxonumque…Cono…Cuneus alius validus…missus" fought against the Greeks in southern Italy in [969][97]. Jackman suggests that this refers to the future Konrad I Duke of Swabia, on the basis that "Saxonumque" is added because of his supposed wife's Saxon origin, in addition using this reference to date the couple's marriage[98]. He succeeded in 983 as KONRAD I Duke of Swabia. Graf im Rheingau 985 and 995. Graf im Ufgau 987. Graf in der Ortenau 994. The Annales Einsidlenses record the death in 997 of "Chuonradus dux" and the succession of "Herimannus filius eius in ducatum"[99]. The necrology of St Gall records the death "XIII Kal Sep" of "Chuonradi ducis Alamannorum"[100].

m ([968][101]) RICHLIND, daughter of [Emperor OTTO I King of Germany & his second wife Adelais of Burgundy] (-[after 1 Nov 1007]). The Historia Welforum names "filia Ottonis magnis imperatoris…Richlint" as wife of "Couno comes"[102]. Jackson[103] identifies her as daughter of Liudolf [of Saxony] Duke of Swabia, son of Emperor Otto I, but the question is not without controversy. In view of the clear statement in the Historia Welforum and the spurious charter, it has been decided to show her here as the child of Emperor Otto I despite the unreliability of these sources, but in square brackets to indicate doubt. "Otto…imperator augustus" granted property by the spurious charter dated 13 Jan 965 to the church of Oehningen, built according to the document by "domnus Chono comes de Oningen" with the consent of "uxoris sui Richlinde…"[104]. As discussed below in relation to the supposed children of this couple, there are considerable doubts about the accuracy of information contained in this charter. The date should not therefore be accepted automatically as the basis for estimating the date of the couple's marriage. She may be "domna Rilint" from whom "Heinricus…rex" acquired property "in Halla in pago Salzburcgouui in comitatu Thiemonis comitis", which he donated to the bishopric of Bamberg by charter dated 1 Nov 1007[105].

Duke Konrad & his wife had [nine] children:

1. [EKBERT . "Otto…imperator augustus" granted property by the spurious charter dated 13 Jan 965 to the church of Oehningen, built according to the document by "domnus Chono comes de Oningen" with the consent of "uxoris sui Richlinde, filiorumque eius Eggeberti, Luipoldi, Chononis, Lutoldi"[106]. The Genealogia Welforum names (in order) "Egebertum marchionem de Stadin, Leopaldum, Liutoldum, Chunonem et 4 filias" as children of "Chuno comes [et] filia Ottonis Magni imperatoris"[107]. The Historia Welforum names (in order) "Eggebertum, Leopaldum, Liutoldum, Counonem" as the four sons of "Couno comes" and "filia Ottonis magnis imperatoris…Richlint", specifying that Ekbert obtained "marchiam illam que est in finibus Saxonie versus Danos, Stadin"[108]. Presumably these three documents are all based on the same source. No other reference has been identified to "marchiam…Stadin". No record has been found of a Graf von Stade named Egbert. It is possible that there is confusion with Ekbert [I] "der Einäugige", count in Saxony, who was probably the son of Wichmann [I] (see SAXONY).]

2. [LUITPOLD . "Otto…imperator augustus" granted property by the spurious charter dated 13 Jan 965 to the church of Oehningen, built according to the document by "domnus Chono comes de Oningen" with the consent of "uxoris sui Richlinde, filiorumque eius Eggeberti, Luipoldi, Chononis, Lutoldi"[109]. The Genealogia Welforum names (in order) "Egebertum marchionem de Stadin, Leopaldum, Liutoldum, Chunonem et 4 filias" as children of "Chuno comes [et] filia Ottonis Magni imperatoris"[110]. The Historia Welforum names (in order) "Eggebertum, Leopaldum, Liutoldum, Counonem" as the four sons of "Couno comes" and "filia Ottonis magnis imperatoris…Richlint"[111]. Presumably these three documents are all based on the same source. The doubts concerning the information contained therein relating to the supposed son named Ekbert do not inspire confidence in the accuracy of anything relating to Luitpold, Liutold and Konrad.]

3. [LIUTOLD (-after 999). The Genealogia Welforum names (in order) "Egebertum marchionem de Stadin, Leopaldum, Liutoldum, Chunonem et 4 filias" as children of "Chuno comes [et] filia Ottonis Magni imperatoris"[112]. The Historia Welforum names (in order) "Eggebertum, Leopaldum, Liutoldum, Counonem" as the four sons of "Couno comes" and "filia Ottonis magnis imperatoris…Richlint", specifying that Ekbert obtained "marchiam illam que est in finibus Saxonie versus Danos, Stadin"[113]. "Otto…imperator augustus" granted property by the spurious charter dated 13 Jan 965 to the church of Oehningen, built according to the document by "domnus Chono comes de Oningen" with the consent of "uxoris sui Richlinde, filiorumque eius Eggeberti, Luipoldi, Chononis, Lutoldi"[114]. Presumably these three documents are all based on the same source. The doubts concerning the information contained therein relating to the supposed son named Ekbert do not inspire confidence in the accuracy of anything relating to Luitpold, Liutold and Konrad.] same person as …? LIUTOLD (-before 1044). The co-identity of Liutold son of Duke Konrad and Liutold Comte de Montbéliard is reconstructed by Hlawitschka[115], but this assumes that the son of Duke Konrad of this name existed in the first place. Comte de Montbéliard.

- GRAFEN im SUNDGAU.

4. [KONRAD . "Otto…imperator augustus" granted property by the spurious charter dated 13 Jan 965 to the church of Oehningen, built according to the document by "domnus Chono comes de Oningen" with the consent of "uxoris sui Richlinde, filiorumque eius Eggeberti, Luipoldi, Chononis, Lutoldi"[116], although as shown below this list of the couple's sons is inconsistent with other sources. The Genealogia Welforum names (in order) "Egebertum marchionem de Stadin, Leopaldum, Liutoldum, Chunonem et 4 filias" as children of "Chuno comes [et] filia Ottonis Magni imperatoris"[117]. The Historia Welforum names (in order) "Eggebertum, Leopaldum, Liutoldum, Counonem" as the four sons of "Couno comes" and "filia Ottonis magnis imperatoris…Richlint"[118]. Presumably these three documents are all based on the same source. The doubts concerning the information contained therein relating to the supposed son named Ekbert do not inspire confidence in the accuracy of anything relating to Luitpold, Liutold and Konrad.]

5. HERMANN (-2/3 May 1003). The Annales Einsidlenses record the death in 997 of "Chuonradus dux" and the succession of "Herimannus filius eius in ducatum"[119]. The Annalista Saxo (apparently incorrectly) records "Herimannum ducem" as son of "Udonis ducis, qui aput Calabriam cum multis occubuit, quando imperator Otto secundus contra Sarracenos pugnavit"[120]. The confusion may be due to Thietmar describing Duke Hermann as "matris meæ avunculi filius"[121], without specifying which "avunculus" to whom this refers. He was installed in 997 as HERMANN II Duke of Swabia. A majority of south-western magnates supported Duke Hermann's candidacy for the imperial throne in 1002 after the death of Emperor Otto III, but acknowledged the accession of Heinrich Duke of Bavaria as king of Germany in Oct 1002[122]. The necrology of Fulda records the death "1003 IV Non Mai" of "Herman dux"[123]. m ([986]) as her second husband, GERBERGA of Burgundy, widow of HERMANN Graf von Werl, daughter of CONRAD I "le Pacifique" King of Burgundy [Welf] & his second wife Mathilde de France [Carolingian] (-7 Jul 1018). Herimannus names "filiam Counradi regis Burgundiæ, Gerbirgam" as wife of "Herimannus dux"[124]. The Chronicle of Alberic de Trois-Fontaines names "Rodulfum II et sororem suam Gepam matrem imperatricis Gisile" as children of "Conradus rex Burgundie" and his wife Mathilde[125]. Wipo names "Herimannus dux Alamanniæ [et] Kerbirga filia Chuonradi regis de Burgundia" as the parents of "regis coniunx Gisela"[126]. "Otto…Romanorum imperator augustus" donated property "in villa Stohchusen in pago Locdorp ac comitatu Herimanni comitis" to Kloster Meschede by charter dated 29 Sep 997 by request of "Gerbirge comitisse"[127]. The necrology of Marchtalen records the death "Non Jul" of "Gerbirc ducissa"[128]. No direct record of her first marriage has so far been identified. However, "Otto tercius…Romanorum imperator augustus" granted privileges to Kloster Oedingen founded by "matrona Gerberga…in comitatu Herimanni eius filii" to the monks of the Marienkapelle at Aachen by charter dated 18 May 1000[129], and Thietmar names "Count Hermann son of Gerberga" when recording his dispute with Dietrich Bishop of Münster in 1016[130]. These two references relate to Hermann [II] Graf von Werl. In addition, "Rodulfus et Bernhardus nati in…Werla" are named as brothers of Empress Gisela in the Annalista Saxo, although not specifying that they were her uterine brothers[131]. Duke Hermann II & his wife had five children:

a) MATHILDE ([988]-20 Jul [1031/32]), bur Worms Cathedral). Thietmar refers to "Konrad" as son-in-law of Hermann Duke of Swabia, recording that they attacked Strasbourg together after the election of Heinrich II King of Germany in 1002[132]. Wipo names "Mahthilda de filia Chuonradi regis Burgundiæ" as mother of "iunioris Chuononis"[133]. The Alberti Milioli Notarii Regini Liber de Temporibus names "comitissam Beatricam…de Gallia…filia comitis Frederic, mater…domina Matilda", but does not give the origin of Mathilde[134]. The Annalista Saxo names "Machtildis" as sister of Gisela, wife of Emperor Konrad II, and also names her third husband[135]. The primary source which records her second marriage has not so far been identified. However, the Chronicon Sancti Michælis, monasterii in pago Virdunensi names "duabus puellulis Sophia et Beatrice" as daughters of the son of "duce Theodorico", specifying that the empress was their amita and that she adopted them after their father died[136]. She attended the Easter celebrations at Ingelheim in 1030[137]. The Liber Anniversariorum of Einsiedeln records the death in Jul of "Mechthild soror imperatricis Gislæ"[138]. "Chuonradus…Romanorum imperator augustus" donated property to the church of Worms naming "filii nostri Heinrici Regis, filie quoque nostre Beatricis" for the souls of "parentum nostrorum defunctorum atavi nostri ducis Chuonradi, avie nostre Iudithe, patris nostri Heinrici, patrui nostri ducis Chuonradi eiusque coniugis Mathildis, sororis etiam nostre Iudithe", all buried at Worms Cathedral, by charter dated 30 Jan 1034[139]. m firstly ([1002]) KONRAD, son of OTTO Duke of Carinthia, Graf im Nahe-, Speier-, und Wormsgau [Salier] & his wife Judith --- (-[12/15] Dec 1011). m secondly ([1016]) FREDERIC of Upper Lotharingia, son of THIERRY I Duke of Upper Lotharingia [Wigeriche] & his wife Richilde [von Bliesgau] ([997/99]-17/18 May 1026). He was titled Duke during the lifetime of his father, sometimes referred to as FREDERIC II Duke of Upper Lotharingia. m thirdly ESIKO Graf im Schwabengau, son of ADALBERT von Ballenstedt & his wife Hidda von der Nordmark (-[1059/60]).

b) GISELA (11 Nov 990[140]-Goslar 16 Feb 1043, bur Speyer Cathedral). Herimannus names "sororis suæ [=Herimannus iunior dux Alamanniæ defunctus" as wife of Ernst when recording the latter's succession as Duke of Swabia in 1012[141]. Wipo names "Herimannus dux Alamanniæ [et] Kerbirga filia Chuonradi regis de Burgundia" as the parents of "regis coniunx Gisela"[142]. The Notæ Sancti Blasii name her "Gisla de Werle" when recording her three marriages[143]. The Annalista Saxo names her three husbands, although the order of her first and second marriages is interchanged which appears impossible chronologically[144]. The necrology of Fulda records the death "1043 XVI Kal Mar" of "Gisela imp"[145]. Herimannus records her death at Goslar[146]. The Annales Spirenses record the burial at Speyer of "Heinricus senior [=Heinricus IV] et aviam suam"[147], the latter assumed to be Gisela his paternal grandmother rather than his maternal grandmother. m firstly ([1003/05]) BRUNO [I] Graf [von Braunschweig], son of EKBERT & his wife --- (-murdered [1010/11]). m secondly ([1012]) ERNST Duke of Swabia, son of LUITPOLD I Markgraf der bayerischen Ostmark [Babenberg-Austria] & his wife Richwara --- (-31 Mar 1015, bur Würzburg). m thirdly (before Jan 1017) KONRAD Herzog von Franken, son of HEINRICH Graf im Wormsgau [Salier] & his wife Adelheid of Metz [Matfriede] ([990]-Utrecht 4 Jun 1039, bur Speyer cathedral). He was elected KONRAD II King of Germany 4 Sep 1024, crowned at Mainz 8 Sep 1024. Crowned King of Italy at Milan Mar 1026. Crowned Emperor at Rome 26 Mar 1027.

c) BERCHTOLD (early 992-early 993, bur Marchtal). The primary source which confirms his parentage has not yet been identified.

d) BEATRIX (-23 Feb after 1125). The primary source which confirms her parentage and marriage has not yet been identified. m ADALBERO Duke of Carinthia, son of MARKWART III Markgraf der Kärtner Mark [Eppenstein] & his wife Hadamudis von Ebersberg (-28 Nov 1039).

e) HERMANN (before Oct 995-1 Apr 1012). Herimannus names "filius eius [=Herimannus dux Alamanniæ] Herimannus puer" when recording his succession as Duke of Swabia[148]. He succeeded his father in 1003 as HERMANN III Duke of Swabia. The necrology of Fulda records the death in 1012 of "Heriman dux"[149]. The Liber Anniversariorum of Einsiedeln records the death in Apr of "dominus Hermannus dux adolescentulus filius Hermanni ducis"[150]. The necrology of Marchtalen records the death "Kal Apr" of "Hermannus dux iunior"[151].

6. [ITA von Öhningen (-16 Oct ----). The Genealogia Welforum names "de Oningen Itam…cuius pater fuit Chuno comes, mater vero filia Ottonis Magni imperatoris" wife of Rudolf[152]. The Historia Welforum refers to the four daughters of "Couno comes" and "filia Ottonis magnis imperatoris…Richlint", specifying that they married "una Roudolfo isti [=Welforum], alia cuidam de Rinveldin, parenti Zaringiorum, tercia regie Rugiorum, quarta comiti de Diezon"[153]. As noted above, these two sources are unreliable in their recording of the sons of Konrad I Duke of Swabia, so should not be assumed to be any more precise in recording his daughters. Her birth date is estimated assuming that her parents married in [968]. The necrology of Weingarten records the death "XVII Kal Nov" of "Ita com uxor Ruodolfi comitis"[154]. m RUDOLF II Graf von Altdorf, son of [RUDOLF I Graf] [Welf] & his wife --- (-10 Mar ----, bur Altdorf).]

7. [ADELIA] . The Genealogia Welforum refers to the four daughters of "Chuno comes [et] filia Ottonis Magni imperatoris", specifying that the third (unnamed) married "regi Rugorum"[155]. The Historia Welforum refers to the four daughters of "Couno comes" and "filia Ottonis magnis imperatoris…Richlint", specifying that they married "una Roudolfo isti [=Welforum], alia cuidam de Rinveldin, parenti Zaringiorum, tercia regie Rugiorum, quarta comiti de Diezon"[156]. As noted above, these two sources are unreliable in their recording of the sons of Konrad I Duke of Swabia, so should not be assumed to be any more precise in recording his daughters. The primary source which confirms her name has not yet been identified. m (after 1011) as his third wife, VLADIMIR I Sviatoslavich Grand Prince of Kiev, son of SVIATOSLAV I Grand Prince of Kiev & his mistress Malusha [Malfred] ([960]-Berestov 15 Jul 1015).]

8. [JUDITH (-after 1032, bur Bouzonville/Buzendorf). The Genealogia Welforum refers to the four daughters of "Chuno comes [et] filia Ottonis Magni imperatoris", specifying that the second (unnamed) married "cuidam de Rinvelden parenti Zaringorum"[157]. The Historia Welforum refers to the four daughters of "Couno comes" and "filia Ottonis magnis imperatoris…Richlint", specifying that they married "una Roudolfo isti [=Welforum], alia cuidam de Rinveldin, parenti Zaringiorum, tercia regie Rugiorum, quarta comiti de Diezon"[158]. As noted above, these two sources are unreliable in their recording of the sons of Konrad I Duke of Swabia, so should not be assumed to be any more precise in recording his daughters. The primary source which confirms her second marriage has not yet been identified. The Notitiæ Fundationis Monasterii Bosonis-Villæ names "Adalbertus comes marchio et uxor sua Iuditha" as parents of Gerhard, noting that they were both buried in the monastery and in a later passage noting their joint donation dated "1033 pridie Kal Feb"[159]. "Iuta marchionissa Litoringie" donated property "villam nostram Mamendorf" to the abbey of St Matthew by charter dated 1030[160]. m firstly --- von Rheinfelden, son of ---. m secondly ADALBERT Graf von Metz, son of [RICHARD Graf von Metz/GERHARD Graf von Metz] [Matfriede] & his wife --- (-[31 Jan/30 Jun] 1033).]

9. [KUNIGUNDE [Kunizza] (-6 Mar 1020, bur Diessen). The Genealogia Welforum refers to the four daughters of "Chuno comes [et] filia Ottonis Magni imperatoris", specifying that the fourth (unnamed) married "comite de Andhese"[161]. The Historia Welforum refers to the four daughters of "Couno comes" and "filia Ottonis magnis imperatoris…Richlint", specifying that they married "una Roudolfo isti [=Welforum], alia cuidam de Rinveldin, parenti Zaringiorum, tercia regie Rugiorum, quarta comiti de Diezon"[162]. As noted above, these two sources are unreliable in their recording of the sons of Konrad I Duke of Swabia, so should not be assumed to be any more precise in recording his daughters. The De Fundatoribus Monasterii Diessenses names "Kunizza comitissa" as wife of "Fridericus comes dictus Roch", but specifying that she was the sister of "sancta Richgardis que Ebersberg cenobium construxit" and that "Otto imperator magnus" was their "avus"[163]. On the other hand, the Chronico Eberspergense names "Rihcardem sororem Marhwardi presidis de Carinthia"[164]. No other indication has been found that Richardis may have been the sister of Kunigunde. The De Fundatoribus records that Kunizza founded "monasterium sancti Stephani" in 1020 after the death of her husband. The necrology of Diessen records the death "Mar Non" of "Chuniza com, sepulta in media basilica s Stephani, uxor Friderici comes Rochen"[165]. m FRIEDRICH I Graf [von Diessen], son of --- (-Jerusalem before 1020, bur Jerusalem).]

Chapter 4. HERZOGEN von SCHWABEN (SAXON KINGS of GERMANY)

LIUDOLF 950-954, OTTO I 973-982, OTTO II 1045-1047

1. LIUDOLF, son of OTTO I "dem Großen" King of Germany & his first wife Eadgyth of Wessex (930[166]-Piomba 6 Sep 957, bur St Alban, near Mainz). The Annales Quedlingburgenes name "Liudolfo et Liutgarde" as the two children of King Otto I and Eadgyth[167]. Graf. His father installed him as LIUDOLF Duke of Swabia in 950, in succession to his father-in-law[168]. "Otto…rex" donated property "in pago Brisehguue in comitatu filii nostri Liutolfi" to Kloster Einsiedeln by charter dated 9 Aug 952[169]. He rebelled against his father, together with his brother-in-law Konrad Duke of Lotharingia, was besieged at Mainz, but escaped to capture Regensburg and expel his uncle Heinrich Duke of Bavaria[170]. His father deposed him in 954 as Duke of Swabia, but ultimately forgave his rebellion[171]. His father sent him to Italy to control Berengario di Ivrea, Viceroy in Italy, who was attempting to reassert his independence, but Liudolf died there of a fever[172]. Thietmar records the death of Liudolf in Italy 6 Sep, "after scarcely a year" following his departure from his homeland, but does not specify the year[173]. The Annales Necrologici Fuldenses record the death "957 VIII Id Sep" of "Liutolf filius regis"[174]. The necrology of Lüneburg records the death "6 Sep" of "Liuidolfus regis filius"[175]. Regino specifies that he died in Italy and was buried in Mainz St Alban[176].

a) other children: see GERMANY.

b) OTTO (954-Lucca 31 Oct 982, bur Aschaffenburg St Peter and Alexander). Regino records the birth of "Liutolfo filius Otto" in 954[177]. He was appointed OTTO Duke of Swabia in 973 by his uncle King Otto II in succession to Duke Burkhard III. "Otto…imperator augustus" confirmed donations of property "de locis Ozenheim, Tetingen…in pago Moiinegouwe in comitatu Eberhardi comitis" by "nobis nepos et equivocus noster Otto dux Sweuorum" to "sancti Petri Ascaffaburg" by charter dated 29 Aug 975[178]. King Otto installed him as OTTO Duke of Bavaria in [976], after confiscating it from his cousin Heinrich II "der Zänker" Duke of Bavaria[179], although Carinthia and the Italian marches were taken from the duchy and made into the new duchy of Carinthia. "Otto…imperator augustus" donated property in Regensburg to Friedrich Archbishop of Salzburg by charter dated 21 Jul 976 after consulting "Ottonis Bauariorum ducis, nostri…fratris filii"[180]. He campaigned in Italy with his uncle King Otto II. He took part in the capture of Tarento, and in the battle 13 Jul 982 at which the German army was defeated by a Byzantine/Muslim alliance near Stilo in Calabria[181]. The death of "Otto dux egregius, filius Liudolfi, fratruelis Ottonis secundi", soon after this defeat, is recorded in the Annalista Saxo[182]. The necrology of St Gall records the death "II Kal Nov" of "Ottonis ducis Alamannie"[183]. He is presumably the "Otto dux Sueuorum" whose death is recorded "1 Nov" in The necrology of Merseburg[184].

Chapter 5. HERZOGEN von SCHWABEN, Dukes of Austria, Babenberger

ERNST I 1012-1015, ERNST II 1015-1027, HERMANN IV 1030-1038

ERNST von Babenberg, son of LUITPOLD I Markgraf der bayerischen Ostmark [Austria] & his wife Richwara im Sualafeldgau ([985/90]-31 Mar 1015, bur Würzburg). Thietmar names "Ernst son of Markgraf Leopold" when recording that he was among those sent by Heinrich II King of Germany to Lombardy after his election to quell unrest[185]. A list of names in the Verbrüderungsbuch of Reichenau abbey reads "Luitpold marches, Rihuuar, Iudita, Heinrich, Ernust, Poppo, Luitpold, Cunigurrt, Adalbr"