Louis, Count of Vendôme facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Louis, Count of Vendôme
Louis and his first wife, Blanche
Count of Vendôme
Coat of arms
Reign	1393-1446
Predecessor	Jeanne of Vendôme and John VII
Successor	John VIII, Count of Vendôme
Spouse(s)	Blanche de Roucy Jeanne de Laval
Noble family	Bourbon Bourbon-Vendôme (Founder)
Father	John I, Count of La Marche
Mother	Catherine de Vendôme
Born	1376
Died	21 December 1446(1446-12-21) (aged 69–70) Tours

Louis de Bourbon (born in 1376 – died December 21, 1446) was an important French noble. He was known as Louis I, Count of Vendôme. Louis was the younger son of John I, Count of La Marche and Catherine de Vendôme. He was a member of the royal family, meaning he was related to the King of France.

Louis became the Count of Vendôme in 1393. This was a title that gave him control over a specific area of land. Later, in 1425, he also became the Count of Castres. He held both these titles until he died in 1446.

Louis's Early Life and Important Jobs

Louis was a strong supporter of the Duke of Orléans. This duke was a powerful figure in France. Because of his loyalty, Louis received important jobs at the royal court.

Becoming a Royal Official

In 1408, Louis became the Grand Chamberlain of France. This was a very high-ranking position. It meant he was in charge of the king's private rooms and household. In 1413, he became the Grand Master of France. This job put him in charge of the royal household's daily operations.

Challenges and Imprisonment

During this time, France was divided by conflicts between powerful noble groups. Louis belonged to a group called the Armagnacs. They were often fighting against another group known as the Burgundians. Because of these rivalries, Louis was captured and imprisoned twice by the Burgundians. This happened in 1407 and again in 1412.

Marriages and Family Life

Louis de Bourbon married twice during his life. His marriages helped form important family connections.

First Marriage and Capture

In 1414, Louis married Blanche. She was the daughter of Hugh II, Count of Roucy. Sadly, the very next year, Louis was captured by the English. This happened during a major battle called the Battle of Agincourt. He was held as a prisoner for some time. After he was freed, he led French forces in another battle at Cravant. He was captured again on July 31, 1423.

Second Marriage and Children

In 1424, Louis married Jeanne de Laval. She was the daughter of Guy XIII, Count of Laval and Anne de Laval. They were married in Rennes. Louis and Jeanne had three children:

• Catherine de Bourbon (born 1425)
• Gabrielle de Bourbon (born 1426)
• John VIII, Count of Vendôme (1425–1477)

Louis also had a son born outside of marriage. This son was named John de Bourbon. He was born around 1420. John later became known as the Seigneur de Preaux.

Loyalty to the King and Joan of Arc

Louis de Bourbon was always loyal to the King of France. He played an important role in the Hundred Years' War.

Fighting Alongside Joan of Arc

In 1429, Louis joined Joan of Arc and many other French nobles. They helped defend the city of Orléans from the English. This was a very important victory for France. Louis also led the attack during the siege of Jargeau. He was present when the king was crowned at Reims.

Later Years and Death

Louis was later involved in important peace talks. He was present at the Treaty of Arras (1435). This treaty helped end some of the conflicts in France. Louis de Bourbon died in Tours in 1446.

Images for kids

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  Coat of Arms of Louis, Count of Vendôme

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  Louis and his first wife, Blanche