Geoffrey, Count of Nantes facts for kids

Geoffrey VI (born June 1, 1134 – died July 27, 1158) was a powerful figure in medieval France. He held the title of Count of Nantes from 1156 to 1158. People also knew him as Geoffrey of Anjou or Geoffrey FitzEmpress. He was the son of Geoffrey Plantagenet and Empress Matilda. His older brother became Henry II of England, a famous king.

His Family and Early Life

Geoffrey VI was born in Rouen in 1134. He was the second of three sons. His mother was Empress Matilda. She was fighting to become the Queen of England during a time called the Anarchy. His father was Count Geoffrey V of Anjou. Geoffrey's birth was very difficult for his mother.

Conflicts and Challenges

Geoffrey often had disagreements with his older brother, Henry. Some stories say their father, Geoffrey V, wanted Geoffrey to become the Count of Anjou and Maine. This would happen if Henry became King of England. Their father supposedly gave Geoffrey castles like Chinon and Loudun. However, historians still debate if this story is true.

In 1152, Geoffrey tried to kidnap Duchess Eleanor of Aquitaine. She was traveling after her marriage to King Louis VII of France ended. Luckily, she was warned and escaped his trap. Later that year, Geoffrey joined King Louis and other powerful counts. They attacked Normandy because Henry married Eleanor without King Louis's permission. They hoped to divide Henry and Eleanor's lands among themselves.

In 1153 or 1154, Geoffrey was captured during a fight over land. His brother Henry had to destroy a castle to get him and others freed. Geoffrey then traveled with Henry and Eleanor to England. This happened when King Stephen died in December 1154.

Becoming Count of Nantes

In 1156, Geoffrey caused more trouble for Henry. Henry then attacked Geoffrey's castles. Geoffrey had to give up most of them. Henry gave Geoffrey money each year for the castles he lost. Soon after, the people of Nantes wanted a new count. They asked King Henry for advice. Henry suggested Geoffrey, and the people agreed. So, Geoffrey became the Count of Nantes.

His Death

Geoffrey died suddenly in Nantes in 1158. After his death, another ruler, Conan IV of Brittany, took control of Nantes. Conan later gave Nantes to Henry.

In Popular Culture

Geoffrey was played by actor Paul Greenwood in a 1978 BBC TV show. The show was called The Devil's Crown. It told the stories of his brother and nephews, who were kings of England.