Roger

Roger (1096 ?-1154), King of Sicily, was of Norman origin, and was the son of Roger, Count of Sicily. In 1127 he claimed the duchy on the death of his kinsman Duke William of Apulia, who left no issue, and after some opposition had his claim allowed. Pope Honorius excommunicated him without effect, and did not recognise him till a year had elapsed. In 1130 Roger gave himself the title.of king, and was opposed this time by Innocent II., the successor of Honorius. He was, nevertheless, crowned in Palermo cathedral, and nine years later the Papacy acknowledged his sovereignty. He gained many victories, and made the name of Sicily knbwn and feared in Greece and Africa, where he gained territorv. He introduced silk manufacture into Sicily.