John II, Marquis of Montferrat facts for kids

John II Palaeologus (born February 5, 1321 – died March 19, 1372) was an important ruler known as the Marquis of Montferrat. He led his region from 1338 until his death.

John II's Early Life and Rule

John was the son of Theodore I of Montferrat. He started helping his father govern the region of Montferrat from 1336. This early experience helped him prepare for his future role as a leader.

Expanding Montferrat's Borders

John II was very successful in making Montferrat larger. He fought against his neighbors to add more land to his territory. With help from his cousin, Otto of Brunswick-Grubenhagen, John turned his attention to the Angevins. The Angevins were a powerful family from Naples who owned many lands in Piedmont and Savoy.

Becoming Governor of Asti

On October 9, 1338, John II was given an important role. He was named the governor of Asti. This showed his growing power and influence in the region.

Key Victories and Growth of Power

In 1343, a big change happened. Robert, King of Naples died, and his young granddaughter, Joanna I, became queen. John II saw this as a chance to make Montferrat even stronger in northern Italy.

Conquering New Territories

By 1344, John II had taken control of several important cities. These included Alessandria, Asti, Tortona, Bra, and Alba. His army was very effective in these conquests.

The Battle of Gamenario

A major victory for John II happened on April 22, 1345. At the Battle of Gamenario, he defeated the Angevine leader, Reforza d'Angoult. Reforza died in the battle, which was a huge win for John II.

Further Expansion and Imperial Support

With secret help from Luchino Visconti, John continued to expand. He occupied Alba, Bra, and Valenza. In 1348, he also took Cuneo.

His power grew even more in 1355. He traveled with Emperor Charles IV through Italy. During this time, he received the cities of Cherasco, Novara, and Pavia. This showed that the Emperor recognized John II's authority.

Challenges and Legacy

John II's rule was not without its challenges. He faced conflicts that tested his leadership.

Losing Imperial Support

John II married Isabella, who was the last queen of Majorca. This marriage caused him to lose the support of the Emperor. He then had to defend his lands from attacks by both imperial and Visconti armies.

Agreements and Losses

This conflict ended with an agreement. John II had to give back the territory around Pavia to the Visconti family. In return, he received some Visconti lands near Asti. However, John lost many of his loyal supporters, called vassals, to the Visconti.

John II's Death and Successors

In his will, written in 1372, John II made plans for his children. He asked Otto of Brunswick and Amadeus VI of Savoy to look after them. John II had four sons and one daughter with his wife Isabella. Three of his sons became Marquis after him: Secondotto, John III, and Theodore II. His daughter was Margaret, and he also had a son named William.

John II died at Volpiano, near Turin, shortly after writing his will. He was buried in Chivasso.