Eudes

Eudes, also known as Odo, was a Frankish nobleman who served as Count of Paris and Duke of France. He played a significant role in the late 9th century during the Viking invasions of Francia. Following the death of Louis the Stammerer in 879, Eudes was elected king by a faction of nobles, a move that challenged the Carolingian succession. He faced considerable opposition from other nobles who supported Louis's young sons, Louis III and Carloman II.

Eudes is most famous for his defense of Paris against a major Viking siege in 885-886. Leading the city's defenders, he held out for over a year against overwhelming odds. His successful resistance earned him considerable prestige and solidified his position as a powerful figure in the realm. Despite his election as king, his rule was contested, and he had to contend with both internal rivals and continued Viking threats. After the deaths of Louis III and Carloman II, Eudes's claim to the throne was further complicated by the arrival of Charles the Fat, the Holy Roman Emperor, who also claimed the Frankish crown. Eventually, Charles the Fat was deposed, and Eudes was recognized as king by most of the realm, though his authority remained somewhat limited. He was succeeded by Charles the Simple, a legitimate Carolingian heir, upon his death in 898, marking the end of his independent reign and further emphasizing the transition of power.