# Ratchis

> Duke of Friuli (739–744) and then King of the Lombards (744–749).

**Wikidata**: [Q312624](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q312624)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ratchis)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/ratchis

## Summary
Ratchis was an aristocrat and Lombard who first served as Duke of Friuli from 739 to 744 before ascending to become King of the Lombards from 744 to 749. His reign marked a transition in Lombard leadership following his predecessor's deposition.

## Biography
- Born: Unknown date and place
- Nationality: Lombard
- Education: Unknown (not specified in source material)
- Known for: Ruling as Duke of Friuli and subsequently King of the Lombards
- Employer(s): Lombard Kingdom (as Duke of Friuli and King of the Lombards)
- Field(s): Governance, Monarchy, Aristocracy (Lombard realm)

## Contributions
The provided source material does not detail any specific contributions by Ratchis in terms of buildings constructed, discoveries published, companies founded, patents obtained, open-source projects created, or standards established. His known roles were hereditary aristocratic positions within the Lombard Kingdom.

## FAQs
*   **What titles did Ratchis hold?** Ratchis held the title of Duke of Friuli from 739 to 744 and later the title of King of the Lombards from 744 to 749.
*   **In which kingdom did Ratchis rule?** Ratchis ruled within the Lombard Kingdom, which encompassed parts of the Italian Peninsula.
*   **How long was Ratchis King of the Lombards?** Ratchis reigned as King of the Lombards for approximately five years, from 744 until 749.

## Why They Matter
Ratchis holds significance as a figure in the history of the Lombard Kingdom, representing the transition of power within the Lombard aristocracy. His brief reign as King followed the deposition of his predecessor and preceded the rule of his brother, Aistulf. While the source material does not specify major policy changes or lasting impacts during his rule, his ascent from Duke to King highlights the structure of Lombard succession and aristocratic influence during this period.

## Notable For
*   Succeeding to the throne of the Lombards after previously holding the duchy of Friuli.
*   Holding the highest Lombard title, King of the Lombards, for five years (744–749).

## Body
### Career Progression and Titles
Ratchis's primary historical record is defined by two successive high offices within the Lombard Kingdom. His known career began with his appointment as **Duke of Friuli**, a significant regional position, which he held from **739 to 744**. Following this, he ascended to the highest Lombard title, becoming **King of the Lombards** in **744**. His reign as king lasted until **749**, when he was deposed and replaced by his brother, Aistulf. His progression from duke to king underscores his standing within the Lombard aristocracy and the political dynamics of the time.

### Position and Context
The role of **Duke of Friuli** was one of the most powerful duchies within the Lombard Kingdom, located in northeastern Italy, an area near the borders with territories like the future Republic of Venice. As an **aristocrat**, Ratchis belonged to the hereditary nobility that formed the backbone of Lombard governance and military power. His reign as **King of the Lombards** placed him at the apex of the Lombard state, ruling over the Lombard people and their Italian territories during the 8th century. The source material does not provide further details on his personal life, specific policies, or events during his ducal or royal reign.

## References

1. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
2. Dizionario Biografico degli Italiani
3. Dizionario di Storia