Roger of Salerno

Roger of Salerno, born in the year one thousand one hundred, was a prominent military leader and regent of the Principality of Antioch from the year one thousand one hundred twelve until his untimely death in one thousand one hundred nineteen. He was the son of Richard of the Principate and the nephew of Tancred, a notable figure in the First Crusade. Roger assumed the regency of Antioch following Tancred's death, as the rightful prince, Bohemond II, was still a minor.

Throughout his regency, Roger was engaged in almost constant warfare against neighboring Muslim states, particularly Aleppo. His tenure was marked by significant challenges, including a devastating earthquake in one thousand one hundred fourteen that ravaged many fortifications within the principality. Demonstrating his commitment to the defense of Antioch, Roger undertook extensive rebuilding efforts, especially along the frontier.

In one thousand one hundred fifteen, Roger achieved a notable military victory against Bursuq ibn Bursuq at the Battle of Tell Danith. Alongside Joscelin I of Edessa, he exerted considerable military pressure on Aleppo, prompting the city to ally with the Ortoqid emir Ilghazi in one thousand one hundred eighteen. However, in one thousand one hundred nineteen, Ilghazi invaded the principality. Despite the advice of the Patriarch to await reinforcements, Roger chose to engage in battle at Ager Sanguinis, where he commanded seven hundred knights and three thousand foot soldiers, including five hundred Armenian cavalry. Tragically, the battle resulted in the loss of nearly all his forces, including Roger himself.

Roger's legacy extends beyond his military endeavors; he is also recognized in numismatic history for a unique series of coins minted during his reign. Despite ruling for less than seven years, he oversaw the production of two distinct types of coins bearing his name in Antioch. The first type featured the image of the Mother of God Orans, while the second depicted the Miracle of Saint George and the Dragon, likely minted after his victory at Tell Danith. Roger was the first ruler in the Christian world to feature this iconic miracle on his coinage.