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Ralph de Guader

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  • Lifespan

    1040 - 1096

  • Famous Quote

    Ralph de Guader supposedly plotted a revolt against William I at his own wedding feast, "while the company was heated with wine".

Did You know?
Ralph fought alongside the Normans at Hastings, though the Bretons were known for acting independently when it suited.
Why are they famous?
Ralph de Guader led the rebellion of 1075. His men were thwarted near Cambridge by the warrior Bishop Odo of Bayeux and Regent Archbishop Lanfrancs's armies. Rebels were taken prisoner and ordered to have their right foot cut off as punishment for their treason.

Ralph de Gauder inherited his title and lands in England and Brittany from his father. As Earl of Norfolk and Suffolk and Constable of Norwich Castle, he was responsible for the initial work on the earth and timber construction around 1067. He also founded, together with William I, a Norman-French borough laid around a central marketplace in the city. Ralph's relationship with the King turned sour in 1075, because the King would not consent to his marriage to Emma fitz Osberne. A rebellion quickly floundered as the King's forces fought back. Ralph escaped to Norwich and then travelled to Denmark to gain support from his continental allies. By 1076, Norwich Castle was siezed and William chased Ralph to Brittany. Despite being stripped of his properties and title, Ralph eventually made peace with the King and remained powerful in Brittany.

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