Jeanne of Hainault facts for kids
Jeanne (also known as Johanna) of Hainault was an important noblewoman who lived a long time ago, from 1323 to 1350. She was a powerful ruler, known as the Countess of Soissons, from 1344 until her death.
Who Was Jeanne of Hainault?
Jeanne was born into a noble family. Her father was John of Beaumont, a lord, and her mother was Margaret of Soissons. When her mother passed away in 1344, Jeanne inherited her mother's important title. This meant she became the Countess of Soissons, ruling over a specific area called Soissons.
Her Marriages and Children
Jeanne married twice during her life. Her first husband was Louis II, Count of Blois. Together, they had three sons:
- Louis III, who became the Count of Blois and Soissons
- John II, who became the Count of Blois
- Guy II, who also became the Count of Blois and Soissons
Sadly, Louis II died in 1346 during a very famous battle called the Battle of Crécy. This was a major battle during the Hundred Years' War between England and France. After Louis's death, Jeanne married again. Her second husband was William I, Marquis of Namur. They did not have any children together.
A Difficult Time: The Black Death
Jeanne's life ended in December 1350. She died from a terrible sickness known as the Black Death. This was a very serious disease that spread across Europe in the 1300s, causing many people to get sick and die.