Olivier, Count of Penthièvre facts for kids

Olivier (died September 28, 1433) was a powerful noble. He was the Count of Penthièvre and Lord of Avesnes. He held these titles from 1404 until his death.

Olivier's Early Life and Family

Olivier was the oldest son of John I, Count of Penthièvre. His mother was Margaret de Clisson. His grandmother was Joan, Duchess of Brittany. She was married to Charles of Blois. This family connection made Olivier a top contender for the throne of Brittany. His family belonged to the House of Châtillon.

Olivier's Role in French Conflicts

In 1411, Olivier joined a group called the Armagnacs. This was during the Armagnac-Burgundian Civil War in France. This was a conflict between two powerful families. Olivier fought alongside Louis II, Duke of Anjou. They took part in the siege of Bourges in 1412. This was despite Olivier being married to Isabella. She was the daughter of John the Fearless, Duke of Burgundy. The Burgundians were rivals of the Armagnacs.

The Plot to Capture Duke John V

Olivier's father and grandmother had given up their claim to Brittany in 1381. But Olivier's mother, Margaret, still wanted the duchy. She and her sons, Olivier and Charles de Avaugour, made a plan. In 1420, they invited John V, Duke of Brittany, to a party. This party was held at Champtoceaux.

At the party, they captured Duke John V. They threatened to kill him. They demanded he give up his ducal throne. The French dauphin, Charles, was the regent at the time. He allowed the situation to continue. Many people in and outside France were upset. After five months, Duke John V was released. His release was negotiated in February 1421. His brother, John de L'Aigle, and Duchess Joan of Brittany, helped with this.

Consequences and Later Life

After his release, Duke John V did not keep his promises. He gathered the Estates of Brittany. This was a meeting of important people in Brittany. They decided to condemn Olivier to death. They also took away all his lands in Brittany.

Olivier had to leave Brittany. He first went to Limoges. Then he moved to Avesnes in Hainaut. While there, he married his second wife. Her name was Joan. She was the daughter of Simon IV de Lalaing. Olivier died in Avesnes in 1433. He did not have any children who could inherit his titles. So, his brother, John, became the next Count of Penthièvre.

Olivier's Marriages

Olivier was married twice.

• His first wife was Isabella. She was the daughter of John the Fearless, Duke of Burgundy. They married on July 22, 1406, in Arras. Isabella died in 1412. They did not have any children.
• His second wife was Jeanne de Lalaing. They married in 1428. She was the daughter of Simon IV de Lalaing. Jeanne died in 1467. They also did not have any children.