Peace and Truce of God: Meaning (information, definition, explanation, facts)

Peace and Truce of God is a medieval Europe political movement for controling violence in society.

The Peace of God, or Pax Dei, began in southern France in the late 10th Century, specifically at the Council of Charroux in 989, and spread to most of Western Europe over the next century, surviving in some form until at least the 13th Century. It was a proclamation that granted immunity from violence to those who could not defend themselves including clergy, children, women (virgins and widows) and even farm animals. It prohibited nobles from invading churches, beating the defenseless, burning houses, etc..

The Truce of God, or Treuga Dei, was proclaimed in 1027 at the Council of Touluges in southern France. It set aside certain days of the year, or even week, when violence was not allowed. By the 11th Century the two movements became synonymous as the Peace and Truce of God movement.

The Peace and Truce of God movement constitutes the first time there is a popular attempt to establish civil society in medieval Europe through non-violent means. The movement was not effective. "In trying to control warfare without the use of physical coercion it rapidly foundered on the rocks of a violent feudal reality." (Richard Landes). However it set a precedant that would be followed by successful popular movements such as medieval communes, and the Crusades.