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John II, Duke of Brabant facts for kids

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John II
Duke of Brabant
Duke of Lothier
Duke of Limburg
Jan II van Brabant senaat.jpg
Born 27 September 1275
Died 27 October 1312(1312-10-27) (aged 37)
Tervuren
Burial Brussels Cathedral
Spouse
Margaret of England
(m. 1290)
Issue John III, Duke of Brabant
House Reginar
Father John I, Duke of Brabant
Mother Margaret of Flanders
Brabante John II gros tournois
This old coin, called a Gros tournois, shows John II.

John II (born 27 September 1275 – died 27 October 1312) was also known as John the Peaceful. He was a powerful ruler, serving as the Duke of Brabant, Lothier, and Limburg from 1294 to 1312. John II was the son of John I of Brabant and Margaret of Flanders.

Becoming Duke

John II became Duke in 1294, taking over from his father. During his time as Duke, Brabant worked with other regions. They formed a group to stop France from expanding its power. John II also tried to take over South Holland. This area was part of medieval Holland. However, he was not successful in this attempt.

Keeping the Peace

In 1309, a group called the Crusade of the Poor surrounded a castle in Genappe, Brabant. John II sent his army to protect the people inside the castle. His army successfully stopped the crusaders. This action helped keep peace and order in his duchy.

The Charter of Kortenberg

John II wanted his duchy to remain peaceful. He also wanted his son to take over smoothly after him. Because of this, in 1312, he signed an important document. It was called the Charter of Kortenberg. This charter was a big step for the people of Brabant. It gave them more rights and a say in how they were governed.

John II passed away in Tervuren in 1312. He was buried in the St. Michael and Gudula Cathedral in Brussels.

Family Life

On 8 July 1290, John II married Margaret of England. Their wedding took place in Westminster Abbey in London. Margaret was the daughter of King Edward I of England. She was also the daughter of Edward's first wife, Eleanor of Castile. John and Margaret had one child together:

See also

  • Dukes of Brabant family tree
Regnal titles
Preceded by
John I
Duke of Brabant, Lothier, and Limburg
1294–1312
Succeeded by
John III
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