Cabochien revolt facts for kids

The Cabochien revolt was a big uprising that happened in Paris, France, in 1413. It was part of a larger conflict called the Armagnac–Burgundian Civil War. This civil war was also happening during the long Hundred Years' War between France and England.

In the spring of 1413, a powerful duke named John the Fearless of Burgundy encouraged the people of Paris to rise up. He wanted to make big changes to how France was run. These changes were known as the Cabochien Ordinance. However, after a few months, the people of Paris wanted peace and order again. They decided to support the return of the Armagnacs, who were the rivals of the Burgundians.

What Caused the Cabochien Revolt?

The revolt began because of a long-standing rivalry between two powerful families in France. These were the Armagnacs and the Burgundians. Their fight was like a civil war within France.

John the Fearless and the Duke of Orléans

In 1407, Louis of Valois, Duke of Orléans, who was the brother of King Charles VI of France, was killed. People working for John the Fearless, the Duke of Burgundy, were responsible. After this event, John the Fearless became very popular with the people of Paris. He promised to bring order and reform.

Who Were the Cabochiens?

John the Fearless teamed up with a group of butchers in Paris. These butchers were called the "Cabochiens." Their leader was a butcher named Simon Caboche. This group was quite wealthy and influential in Paris, even though they were not part of the noble class.

In April 1413, John the Fearless encouraged the Cabochiens to start a revolt. He wanted to gain more power for himself.

The Revolt Begins in Paris

The Cabochiens were very active and wore special white caps. They attacked noblemen who supported the Armagnacs. They also damaged their homes and properties all over Paris.

Key Events of the Uprising

On April 27, 1413, the Cabochiens took control of the Bastille Saint-Antoine. This was a very important fortress in Paris. They captured its commander, Pierre des Essarts, who was the Provost of Paris. He was later executed in July.

The Cabochiens also forced their way into the Hôtel Saint-Pol. This was the royal residence where the king lived. They arrested several of the king's officials and put them in different prisons in Paris. The Cabochiens controlled Paris for about four months.

The Cabochien Ordinance

During the revolt, some smart people, including advisors to John of Burgundy, created a set of new rules. These rules were called the "Ordonnance cabochienne."

What the Ordinance Aimed For

The main goal of this ordinance was to limit the power of the king. For example, it wanted to give more control over taxes to a group called the Estates General. This group represented different parts of French society.

Even though the ordinance was named after Caboche, it was actually prepared earlier in 1413. John of Burgundy's advisors forced King Charles VI to sign it on May 22, 1413. It was officially published during the Cabochien revolt.

The End of the Revolt

The Cabochiens and Burgundians became very demanding and harsh. This made the people of Paris increasingly unhappy. They started to turn against the Cabochiens.

The Revolt is Over

By early August (August 2-3), the Cabochien revolt was over. Many Cabochiens who could not escape were captured and executed. The Cabochien Ordinance, which had been signed by the king, was cancelled on September 5, 1413. Simon Caboche, the leader of the butchers, managed to escape with the Duke of Burgundy.

The Armagnacs Take Control

After the revolt ended, Charles, Duke of Orléans, who was the son of the murdered Duke of Orléans, became very important. He had married Bonne d’Armagnac, whose father was the powerful Count Bernard VII of Armagnac.

Count Bernard VII had many soldiers from his lands. He helped his son-in-law, Charles d’Orléans, take control of Paris. As a reward for his help, Bernard VII d'Armagnac was made the Constable of France on December 30, 1415. This was a very high military position.