Conan III, Duke of Brittany facts for kids

Conan III, also known as Conan of Cornouaille, was an important ruler in France. He was the duke of Brittany from 1112 until he passed away in 1148. Conan was born around 1093 to 1096. His parents were Alan IV, who was also a Duke of Brittany, and Ermengarde of Anjou.

Conan III made an alliance with King Stephen of England. This was during a time called the Anarchy, which was a big war in England. King Stephen was fighting against Empress Matilda for the throne.

Conan III's Family Life

Conan III married a woman named Maud. She was a daughter of King Henry I of England. They got married before the year 1113. Conan and Maud had three children together:

• Hoel (born around 1116, died 1156) – He was later removed from being next in line for the ducal crown. He became the Count of Nantes.
• Bertha (born around 1114, died after 1155) – She married Alan of Penthièvre. After Alan died in 1146, Bertha came back to Brittany.
• Constance (born around 1120, died 1148) – She married Sir Geoffroy II, who was the Lord of Mayenne.

Who Would Rule Next?

When Conan III was very sick and close to death in 1148, he made a surprising decision. He said that his son, Hoel, was not his true son and could not become the next duke. This meant that Hoel was "disinherited" from taking over the duchy.

Because of this, Conan's daughter, Bertha, became the next in line to rule Brittany. However, Hoel was still allowed to keep the area known as the County of Nantes.

See also

• Dukes of Brittany family tree