Robert the Pious was the second king of the Capetian Dynasty, which ruled in what is now France for more than 300 years.

Robert was born in 972. His father was Hugh Capet, who at the time was the most powerful man in Francia. Capet had named his son Robert his successor and co-ruler not long after he himself became King of the Franks, in 987. Father and son spent the last nine years of the former's life sharing power. Robert reigned alone for further 35 years.

As King of the Franks, Robert had a commanding position but owned little territory in his own name. This had been the case with his father as well. In 1003, Robert invaded the Duchy of Burgundy; he did not take it right away was eventually named Duke of Burgundy.

A devout Catholic, Robert became known to history as Robert the Pious. He considered himself a religious official and wore his royal robes while conducting some religious ceremonies. He also was fond of singing and writing hymns. One of his more zealous actions was to reinstate the practice of burning heretics at the stake.

Robert married three times in all. Only with his third wife, Constance of Arles, did he have children. Together, they had four sons and three daughters.

His youngest son, Odo, died when he was young. Robert's three older sons rebelled against their father. Robert had named his oldest son, Hugh Magnus, as co-ruler in 1007. It was in 1025 that sons rose up in revolt against father. Hugh died in the ensuing battle. Henry and Robert the younger fought against and eventually defeated their father in 1031, by killing him in battle at Melun. Henry, as the older surviving son, became King Henry I.