Hugh of Payens was a French knight and the first Grand Master of the Knights Templar, a medieval Christian military order founded in 1119. He played a crucial role in establishing the order, which aimed to protect Christian pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land during the Crusades. Under Hugh's leadership, the Knights Templar gained significant influence and wealth, becoming a key player in the politics and military efforts of the time. He served as Grand Master until his death in 1136, helping to lay the foundation for the order's future expansion and prominence in medieval Europe.