Charles of Valois facts for kids
Charles of Valois (born March 12, 1270 – died December 16, 1325) was an important French prince. He was the third son of Philip III of France, who was the King of France, and Isabella of Aragon. His mother was the daughter of James I of Aragon and Yolande of Hungary. Charles was a member of the powerful Capetian dynasty, a royal family that ruled France for a long time. He is most famous for starting the House of Valois, which later became the ruling family of France. He was also the first Count of Valois.
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Who Was Charles of Valois?
Charles was born into one of the most important families in Europe. His father was the King of France, which meant Charles was a prince. Even though he was not the oldest son, he played a big role in French history. He was known for being ambitious and always looking for ways to gain more power and influence.
Starting the House of Valois
The House of Valois was a new branch of the Capetian royal family. Charles of Valois was its founder. This family became very important because, later on, his son and then his grandsons would become kings of France. This happened after the main line of the Capetian kings ended without a direct heir. So, Charles's family took over the throne.
His Many Titles and Lands
Charles of Valois held many important titles during his life. He was the:
- Count of Valois
- Count of Alençon
- Count of Anjou
- Count of Maine
- Count of Chartres
These titles meant he controlled large areas of land and had a lot of power in France. He also tried to become the Latin Emperor of Constantinople and even the King of Aragon, showing his big ambitions.
Charles's Family Life
Charles of Valois was married three times and had many children. His marriages helped him gain more power and connections.
- His first wife was Margaret, the daughter of Charles II of Naples.
- His second wife was Catherine I, who was the Latin Empress of Constantinople.
- His third wife was Mahaut of Châtillon.
His children continued the Valois family line. One of his sons, Philip, eventually became King Philip VI of France. This made Charles of Valois the grandfather of a future king, even though he himself never became king.
His Role in French Politics
Charles was a very active and influential person in French politics. He often advised his brother, King Philip IV, and later his nephews. He was involved in many important events and conflicts of his time, including the War of the Sicilian Vespers. He was known for his military skills and his desire to expand French influence.
Legacy of Charles of Valois
Charles of Valois died in 1325. His greatest legacy is founding the House of Valois. This family ruled France for over 260 years, from 1328 to 1589. Many famous French kings came from this family, including those who fought in the Hundred Years' War. Charles's ambition and his family connections laid the groundwork for his descendants to become kings of France.
