Richard the Fearless, Duke of Normandy

Richard I, also known as Richard the Fearless, was born on 28 August 932 in Fécamp, Duchy of Normandy. He was the son of William Longsword and Sprota, and the grandson of Rollo. After his father's death in 942, Richard was taken into custody by King Louis IV of West Francia but was eventually released and recognized as the ruler of Normandy.

In 946, Richard allied with Norman and Viking leaders, securing his position as duke after a battle that saw King Louis IV captured. He formed a strategic alliance with Hugh the Great by marrying his daughter Emma in 960, although she died without issue. Richard expanded feudalism in Normandy, ensuring that Norman landholders held their lands in feudal tenure by the end of his reign.

Richard focused on stabilizing Normandy and reuniting the Normans. He married Gunnor, with whom he had several children, including Richard II of Normandy and Robert II, Archbishop of Rouen. His reign saw the consolidation of the Duchy of Normandy into a formidable principality within West Francia.

Richard I died of natural causes on 20 November 996 in Fécamp and was buried at Fécamp Abbey. He was succeeded by his son, Richard II.