John II, Count of Penthièvre facts for kids

John II, also known as Jean de L'Aigle, was an important French nobleman. He was the Count of Penthièvre from 1433 until he died in 1454. He also became the Count of Périgord in 1437. John II played a role in the politics of his time, especially during the Hundred Years' War.

John II's Early Life

John was the second son of John I, Count of Penthièvre, and his wife, Margaret de Clisson. When his father passed away in 1404, John was given the lordship of L'Aigle in Normandy.

A Family Dispute

In 1420, John's brothers kidnapped John V, Duke of Brittany. This was a very serious event. John de L'Aigle helped to negotiate for the duke's freedom. The duke agreed to be released if John's youngest brother, William, was also set free.

However, after his release, the duke said he had been forced to agree. So, he refused to let William go. William remained held captive until 1448.

Becoming a Count

After his brother Olivier died in 1433, John inherited his family's titles in Brittany. This included their claim to the throne of Brittany during the War of the Breton Succession.

In 1437, John also bought the county of Périgord from Charles, Duke of Orléans. He finally gained control of his lands in Brittany in 1448. This happened after he made peace with Francis I, Duke of Brittany.

A Leader in War

During the final parts of the Hundred Years' War, John II served as a top military leader. He was a lieutenant general for Charles VII of France in Aquitaine from 1450 to 1451. He showed great bravery and skill at the Battle of Castillon in 1453. This battle was a major victory for France.

Family and Legacy

John II married Margaret de Chauvigny, who was the lady of Saint-Chartier. However, they did not have any children. John II passed away in 1454.

In his will, he named his niece, Nicole, as his heir for Penthièvre. His brother, William, Viscount of Limoges, inherited Périgord.