The Counts of Hainaut were rulers of the historical region of Hainaut, located in present-day Belgium and France. This title emerged in the 9th century and was held by various noble families, including the House of Flanders and the House of Valois. The counts played a significant role in the political landscape of medieval Europe, often engaging in alliances and conflicts with neighboring territories. Throughout their reign, the Counts of Hainaut contributed to the development of towns and trade in the region. They were instrumental in establishing local governance and legal systems, which helped shape the cultural and economic identity of Hainaut. The title eventually merged with other noble titles, influencing the broader history of the Low Countries.