Origins & Early Life

Simon de Montfort, 5th Earl of Leicester (c. 1175 – 25 June 1218), known as Simon IV (or V) de Montfort and as Simon de Montfort the Elder, was a French nobleman and knight of the early 13th century. He is widely regarded as one of the great military commanders of the Middle Ages. He took part in the Fourth Crusade and was one of the prominent figures of the Albigensian Crusade.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

Montfort is mostly noted for his campaigns in the latter, notably for his battle at Muret. He died at the Siege of Toulouse in 1218. He was Lord of Montfort from 1188 to his death and Earl of Leicester in England from 1204. He was also Viscount of Albi, Béziers and Carcassonne from 1213, as well as Count of Toulouse from 1215. He was the son of Simon de Montfort (d.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

1188), lord of Montfort l'Amaury in France near Paris, and Amicia de Beaumont, daughter of Robert de Beaumont, 3rd Earl of Leicester. He succeeded his father as lord of Montfort in 1188; in 1190 he married Alix de Montmorency, the daughter of Bouchard III de Montmorency. She shared his religious zeal and would accompany him on his campaigns. In 1199, while taking part in a tournament at Ecry-sur-Aisne, he took the cross in the company...

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