John VIII of Harcourt facts for kids

Jean VIII of Harcourt (born April 9, 1396 – died August 17, 1424) was an important French nobleman during a time of war. He held the title of count of Aumale. Jean was the son of John VII of Harcourt, who was also a count, and Marie of Alençon, a member of the royal family. He played a role in the long conflict known as the Hundred Years' War between France and England.

Jean VIII's Life and Military Role

Jean VIII of Harcourt was a brave fighter who took part in several major battles against the English. He fought in the famous Battle of Agincourt and later in the Battle of la Brossinière. These battles were important moments in the ongoing war.

In 1417, Jean was given important leadership roles. He became a lieutenant and captain general for the region of Normandy. He was also made the captain of the town and castle of Rouen, a very important city at the time.

His Final Battle and Legacy

Sadly, Jean VIII of Harcourt was killed in battle on August 17, 1424, during the Battle of Verneuil. This was another significant clash in the Hundred Years' War. After his death, he was buried at a place called la Saussaie.

Jean VIII had one son, Louis II of Harcourt (1424–1479). Louis went on to have a distinguished career in the church. He became a bishop of Béziers in 1451 and later an archbishop of Narbonne in the same year. He also served as the bishop of Bayeux starting in 1460 and held the high position of Latin patriarch of Jerusalem from 1460 until his death in 1479.

Since Jean VIII did not have a legitimate heir to inherit his main titles, his responsibilities were passed on to other family members. His role as captain of Mont Saint-Michel went to his cousin, Jean d'Orléans, comte de Dunois. This cousin was a famous companion of Joan of Arc. Jean VIII's title of count of Aumale was passed to his brother-in-law, Antoine of Vaudémont.