Treaty of Paris (1259) facts for kids
The Treaty of Paris was an important agreement signed on December 4, 1259. It was made between two powerful kings: Louis IX of France and Henry III of England. This treaty is also sometimes called the Treaty of Albeville.
The main reason for the treaty was to settle who owned certain lands. These lands were mostly in a region called Normandy, which England had gained control of back in 1180. However, a French king named Philip II of France had later taken many of these lands back.
Why the Treaty Was Needed
England had lost a big battle called the Battle of Bouvines in 1214. This made England much weaker on the European mainland. Another French king, Louis VII of France, made France even stronger in these areas.
Because of this, England was left with only two main areas: Gascony and Bordeaux. The Treaty of Paris helped to sort out these land disagreements.
What Each King Agreed To
Under the treaty, King Henry III of England gave up his claims to several French regions. These included Maine, Anjou, and Poitou. England had lost these lands earlier, during the time of King John.
However, Henry III was allowed to remain the Duke of Aquitaine. This meant he could keep the lands of Gascony and parts of Aquitaine. But there was a catch: he had to promise to be a vassal to King Louis IX. Being a vassal meant he had to show loyalty and respect to the French king, almost like a loyal subject, even though he was also a king himself.
In return for Henry giving up these lands, King Louis IX made some promises too. He agreed to stop supporting any English rebels. He also gave Henry control over some important cities and church areas. These included Limoges, Cahors, and Périgueux. Louis also agreed to pay Henry an annual rent for owning a region called Agenais. The treaty also officially gave the Channel Islands to England.
Images for kids
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Ratification of the Treaty of Paris by Henry III, 13 October 1259.Archives Nationales (France).
See also
In Spanish: Tratado de París (1259) para niños