Hugh Capet is the founder of the line of kings that ruled the Franks (French) for much of the middle ages. Although more able as a Duke than King, he succeeded in gaining the throne of France, cementing an alliance with the churches of the kingdom, and passing the crown to his son and heir. His piety, diplomatic skills, and political acumen were well known. "The Encyclopedia of the Middle Ages" Norman F. Cantor, General Editor.