Philip I: A Long Reign of Small Steps

Philip I's remarkably long reign (1060-1108) spanned nearly half a century of profound changes in European society. Ascending the throne as a child of eight, Philip survived a troubled minority to become one of the most effective early Capetian kings, though his achievements were incremental rather than dramatic. His reign demonstrated how patience, opportunism, and careful management could slowly strengthen royal power.

The king's marriage to Bertha of Holland in 1072 brought important advantages, including an alliance with Flanders and a substantial dowry. However, Philip's later passion for Bertrade de Montfort, whom he abducted from her husband the count of Anjou, created a scandal that overshadowed much of his reign. His bigamous marriage led to excommunication and interdict, demonstrating again how personal conduct could undermine royal authority. Yet Philip's refusal to abandon Bertrade also showed royal determination to resist ecclesiastical pressure when core interests were at stake.

Philip's most significant achievement was the expansion of the royal domain through careful acquisitions. He purchased the Gâtinais region, incorporated the French Vexin, and established stronger control over Berry. These additions, while individually modest, cumulatively increased royal resources by perhaps one-third. Philip's strategy of purchasing rights rather than conquering territories proved both less risky and more sustainable than military expansion.

The reign witnessed the early stages of economic growth that would transform medieval Europe. Towns began expanding, commerce increased, and new lands came under cultivation. Philip responded by granting privileges to towns within the domain, encouraging commercial development that increased royal revenues. His protection of merchants and maintenance of peace within royal lands contrasted favorably with the disorder prevalent in many principalities, attracting settlement and investment.