List of titles and honours of the french crown facts for kids

The French Crown refers to the many important titles held by the rulers of France over centuries. It represents the power and history of French kings and queens. The story of the French Crown began long before France was officially a kingdom.

The earliest rulers were kings of the Franks. One of the most famous was Clovis I. He was the first king to unite many Frankish groups. After Clovis died, his lands were divided among his sons. His son Chlothar I became a very successful king, ruling over many important cities.

Many years later, Louis the Pious, son of Charlemagne, became a powerful king. He ruled over much of what is now France. In 1190, Philip II of France was the first ruler to be officially called "King of France". Later, in 1610, the kingdom of Navarre joined with France under Henry IV of France.

A huge change came with the French Revolution. King Louis XVI and his wife Marie Antoinette lost their power and lives during this time. After a period of great change, Emperor Napoleon took control of France. He was later sent away and had to give up his power. For many years after, there was much discussion about who should be king. Today, there are still people who believe they have a claim to the French throne.

These people are:

• Louis Alphonse de Bourbon, Duke of Anjou
• Jean-Christophe, Prince Napoléon
• Jean, Count of Paris

In the 1300s, even English kings tried to claim the French throne. But those claims eventually ended.

What Was the French Crown?

The French Crown wasn't just one title. It was a collection of many important titles that showed who ruled different parts of France and its surrounding areas. These titles changed over time as France grew and its power shifted.

Royal Titles

The most important titles linked to the French Crown were those of kings. These included:

• King of France
• King of Navarre (after it joined France)
• King of England (this was a disputed claim by French kings at times)

Princely Titles

Princes also held special titles. These showed their high rank within the royal family.

• Prince du sang (meaning "Prince of the Blood")
• Co-Prince of Andorra (this title is not passed down through family)

Duchies and Counties

Many parts of France were ruled by powerful dukes and counts. These areas were called duchies and counties. The French Crown often had control over these regions. Some important duchies included:

• Duke of Brittany
• Duke of Burgundy
• Duke of Anjou
• Duke of Normandy
• Duke of Aquitaine
• Duke of Lorraine
• Duke of Orléans
• Duke of Berry

Some important counties included:

• Count of Burgundy
• Count of Anjou
• Count of Champagne
• Count of Bios

Titles Through Marriage

Sometimes, royal titles were gained through marriage. This could happen when a French royal married someone from another royal family.

• King of Navarre: This title was gained when Philip IV of France married Joan I of Navarre.
• Queen Consort of England: Several French princesses became Queen Consort of England by marrying English kings. Examples include Isabella of France (who married Edward II of England), Catherine of Valois (who married Henry V of England), and Isabella of Valois (who married Richard II of England).
• Queen Consort of France: When Louis XII of France died, his daughter Claude of France was the heir. However, a rule called Salic law prevented women from becoming queen. So, Claude married Francis I of France, who then became King of France, making her Queen Consort.
• Queen Consort of Spain: Elisabeth of Valois became Queen Consort of Spain when she married Philip II of Spain.

Heir Apparent Titles

The person next in line to become king or queen often had a special title.

• Dauphin of France: This was the title given to the oldest son of the King of France, who was expected to inherit the throne.