The 10 most significant kings to rule Westeros
By Michael East
Jaehaerys I Targaryen is the longest tenured ruler of Westeros, ruling for 55 years from 48 AC - 103 AC. He was known as the Conciliator, the Wise, and the Old King pic.twitter.com/cdDYpPuAj4
— Thrones Facts | HOTD 🐉 (@Thrones_Facts) January 9, 2020
2. Jaehaerys I Targaryen: The Wise (48 AC – 108 AC)
If any king could be considered the polar opposite of Aerys II, it might be Jaehaerys I. Known as The Conciliator or The Wise, Jaehaerys was the fourth Targaryen to sit on the Iron Throne and one of the most fondly remembered. Reigning for a record 55 years, he brought untold prosperity to his house and the kingdoms at large. There was peace, justice and stability.
Jaehaerys was a natural monarch. Tall and handsome, he moved with grace and dignity and commanded an aura of respect and fealty. His humility and chivalry stand as an example to all those who would follow, yet it was his wisdom where the king truly shined. Said to be as learned as any maester, he was decisive yet not rash to action, always considering his next move with only the good of the kingdom in mind.
"“Aegon the Dragon and his sisters conquered the Seven Kingdoms (six of them, at least), but it was Jaehaerys the Conciliator who truly made them one.” — Umbert, Fire & Blood"
The old maesters tell of many great deeds and events during the reign of Jaehaerys I. The populations of Dorne and King’s Landing grew exponentially thanks to the onset of peace and the wealth flowing through Westeros. The Riverlands had calm for 50 years after Jaehaerys personally intervened to ensure the peace between Houses Bracken and Blackwood. While he did not forge the Seven Kingdoms, his rule confirmed that they would be seen as one unit under one king.