Guigues VIII of Viennois facts for kids
Guigues VIII de la Tour-du-Pin (born in 1309, died in 1333) was an important ruler in a region of France called the Dauphiné of Viennois. He became the ruler, known as the Dauphin, when he was just nine years old. Guigues was known for his bravery and for leading his people in battles.
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Guigues VIII: A Young Ruler
Guigues VIII was born in 1309. His father was Dauphin John II. His mother was Beatrice of Hungary. When his father passed away in 1318, Guigues was only nine years old. He then became the new Dauphin.
Because he was so young, his uncle, Henri Dauphin, helped him rule. Henri was a bishop. He acted as Guigues's regent until 1323. A regent is someone who rules for a young king or queen until they are old enough.
A Brave Leader in Battle
Guigues VIII grew up to be a skilled knight and fighter. In 1325, when he was sixteen, he led his army to victory. This was at the Battle of Varey, near Pont d'Ain. His army fought bravely against the Savoyards. Old stories say that the Savoyard army was "beautifully defeated."
From that time until his death, Guigues was often in conflict. He had many disagreements and battles with his Savoyard neighbors.
French Connections
Guigues VIII also made France's influence stronger in his region. He married Isabelle, who was the daughter of Philip V of France. This marriage helped connect his region more closely with the French kingdom.
In 1328, Guigues showed his courage again. At the Battle of Cassel, King Philip VI of France gave Guigues an important job. He put Guigues in charge of a large part of the French army. In this battle, the French knights defeated the Flemish fighters. For his bravery, Guigues was given a special house in Paris. It was called the Maison aux Piliers.
The End of His Rule
Guigues VIII died in 1333 while fighting. He was trying to capture a Savoyard castle called La Perrière. After his death, his brother Humbert II became the new Dauphin. Guigues was buried in Saint-André in Grenoble.
