Duke of Orléans facts for kids

The Duke of Orléans was a very important title in old France, back when the country was a monarchy ruled by kings. This title was usually given to a younger son of the king. It would then pass down from father to son in that family line.

One famous Duke of Orléans was Philippe, who was the only brother of King Louis XIV. Because he was the king's brother, he was known simply as Monsieur. After Philippe died in 1701, the Dukes of Orléans were known as Princes of the Blood. This meant they were high-ranking princes because they were related to a past king. People would address the Duke of Orléans as Your Serene Highness in writing. The family known today as the House of Orléans comes from this important line of dukes.

The Dukes of Orléans were very wealthy and powerful. Their main home was the Palais Royal in Paris. They also owned the grand Château de Saint Cloud just outside the capital, along with many other large houses. The Duke and his wife even had their own special apartment in the famous Palace of Versailles.

Who Were the Dukes of Orléans?

This section lists some of the most notable people who held the title of Duke of Orléans. Each duke played a part in French history.

Philippe I: The King's Brother

• Philippe of France, Duke of Orléans (10 May 1661 – 9 June 1701)
• He was the only brother of King Louis XIV. People simply called him "Monsieur." He was a very influential figure at court.

Philippe II: The Regent of France

• Philippe, Duke of Orléans, Regent of France (9 June 1701 – 2 December 1723)
• After his father Philippe I died, he became the Duke. He was also the Regent of France for the young King Louis XV. This meant he ruled the country until the king was old enough to take over.

Louis: A Quiet Duke

• Louis, Duke of Orléans (2 December 1723 – 4 February 1752)
• He was the son of Philippe II. Louis was known for being quite religious and private. He preferred a quiet life away from the royal court.

Louis Philippe: The Grandfather of a King

• Louis Philippe, Duke of Orléans (4 August 1752 – 18 November 1785)
• He was the son of Louis. He was a military leader and a very wealthy man. His grandson would later become a king.

Philippe Égalité: A Revolutionary Duke

• Philippe Égalité (18 November 1785 – 6 November 1793)
• He was the son of Louis Philippe. During the French Revolution, he supported the revolutionaries and even changed his name to "Philippe Égalité" (meaning "Equality"). Sadly, he was executed by guillotine during the revolution.

Louis Philippe I: From Duke to King

• Louis Philippe I (6 November 1793 – 9 August 1830)
• He was the son of Philippe Égalité. After the French Revolution, he eventually became the King of the French. This shows how important the Orléans family was in French history.

Images for kids

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  Coat of arms of the Duke of Orléans as prince of the blood