Baelor the Blessed: The Pious King of Westeros

Introduction

Baelor the Blessed, also known as Baelor Breakspear, was the seventh Targaryen king of Westeros. He ruled from 171 to 184 AC and is remembered as one of the most devout and virtuous monarchs in Westerosi history.

Early Life and Accession to the Throne

Baelor was born in 153 AC to King Aegon IV Targaryen and his mistress, Daenaera Velaryon. He was raised in the Red Keep by his uncle, Ormund Baratheon.

At the age of 18, Baelor was sent to Sunspear as a hostage to foster a peace between House Targaryen and House Martell. His time in Dorne had a profound impact on him, instilling in him a deep reverence for the Seven Gods and the teachings of the High Septon.

Upon his return to King's Landing, Baelor became a close advisor to his father, Aegon IV. However, he was often at odds with his father's hedonistic and decadent lifestyle.

In 171 AC, Aegon IV died of consumption. Baelor was crowned king at the Great Sept of Baelor, which he had commissioned to be built in honor of the Seven Gods.

Reign as King

Baelor's reign was characterized by his unwavering devotion and efforts to reform the kingdom according to the principles of the Faith of the Seven.

Religious Reforms

• Proclaimed the Seven Gods as the only true gods of Westeros.
• Banned prostitution, gambling, and other forms of vice.
• Established the Faith Militant, a religious order dedicated to enforcing the laws of the Faith.
• Ordered the construction of septries and schools throughout the realm.

Social Reforms

• Outlawed slavery and serfdom.
• Increased taxes on the wealthy to fund social welfare programs for the poor.
• Established orphanages and hospitals to care for the needy.

Foreign Policy

Baelor pursued a peaceful foreign policy, seeking to avoid war and maintain good relations with other kingdoms.

• Sent envoys to the Free Cities to establish trade agreements.
• Negotiated a truce with the Dondarrions, who had been at war with the Targaryens.
• Withdrew the Targaryen claim to the Stepstones, ending a long-running conflict.

Death and Legacy

In 184 AC, Baelor died at the age of 31 after falling from his horse while riding in the Kingswood. His death was mourned throughout Westeros, and he was canonized as a saint by the Faith of the Seven.

Baelor's legacy is one of piety, virtue, and social justice. He is remembered as a king who ruled with compassion and sought to create a better world for his subjects.

Influence on Westeros

Baelor's reforms had a lasting impact on the history of Westeros:

• The Faith of the Seven became the dominant religion in the realm.
• The Faith Militant served as a powerful force in upholding the laws of the Faith.
• The emphasis on social welfare created a more just and equitable society.

Pain Points

• Baelor's religious reforms were met with resistance from some nobles who resented the loss of their traditional privileges.
• His ban on vice led to a thriving black market in prostitution and gambling.
• The Faith Militant's zeal sometimes led to excessive violence and abuse of power.

Motivations

• Baelor's deep faith in the Seven Gods motivated him to make Westeros a more pious and righteous society.
• He believed that social justice was essential for creating a peaceful and harmonious kingdom.
• Baelor's desire to establish a lasting legacy inspired him to implement far-reaching reforms.

Why Matters

• Baelor's reforms had a profound impact on the religious, social, and political landscape of Westeros.
• His legacy serves as an example of how one person can make a significant difference in the world.
• Baelor's story highlights the importance of faith, compassion, and the pursuit of social justice.

Benefits

• Baelor's reforms improved the lives of many ordinary people.
• The spread of the Faith of the Seven provided a sense of community and purpose.
• The Faith Militant helped to enforce the law and protect the innocent.

Comparison of Pros and Cons

Pros

• Strengthened the Faith of the Seven
• Promoted social justice
• Improved the lives of many people

Cons

• Alienated some nobles
• Led to a thriving black market
• Resulted in some instances of excessive violence by the Faith Militant

Conclusion

Baelor the Blessed was a remarkable king who left a lasting legacy on Westeros. His unwavering faith, compassionate nature, and commitment to social justice inspired his subjects and shaped the course of history.

FAQs

1. What was Baelor's most significant reform?
   - Establishing the Faith Militant.

2. How did Baelor die?
   - Falling from his horse while riding in the Kingswood.

3. Who crowned Baelor king?
   - The High Septon at the Great Sept of Baelor.

4. What was Baelor's nickname?
   - Breakspear

5. Which foreign kingdom did Baelor negotiate a truce with?
   - The Dondarrions

6. What was the main reason for resistance to Baelor's reforms?
   - Loss of traditional privileges for some nobles.

7. What did Baelor believe was essential for a peaceful and harmonious society?
   - Social justice

8. What was Baelor's desire to establish?
   - A lasting legacy