Brother of King Louis IX of France, he played a key role in the Seventh Crusade and ruled several provinces, leaving a lasting legacy in French history.
Alphonse, Count of Poitiers, was a pivotal figure in 13th-century French politics, known for his influential role in the Seventh and Eighth Crusades, his governance of Toulouse and Poitou, and his significant impact on the royal family of France.
Born in 1220 at Poissy, Alphonse was the son of King Louis VIII of France and Blanche of Castile, and younger brother of King Louis IX of France. His family ties played a significant role in shaping his life and career, with his mother's regency of France placing him in a position of power from a young age.
In 1229, Alphonse's mother forced the Treaty of Paris on Count Raymond VII of Toulouse, securing a marriage between Alphonse and Joan, Raymond's daughter. This union granted Alphonse control of Toulouse upon Raymond's death in 1249. Additionally, his father's will bequeathed him the appanage of Poitou and Auvergne, further solidifying his position of power.
Alphonse participated in two major Crusades alongside his brother, Louis IX. The Seventh Crusade saw him raise a substantial force and arrive in Damietta in 1249, after the town's capture. He returned home in 1250, only to face resistance to his accession as Count of Toulouse, which was quashed with the help of his mother.
He joined the Eighth Crusade in 1270, demonstrating his commitment to the cause and his loyalty to his brother.
In 1252, following his mother's death, Alphonse became joint regent with Charles of Anjou until Louis IX's return. During this period, he played a crucial role in the campaigns and negotiations leading to the Treaty of Paris in 1259, recognizing King Henry III of England's sovereignty.
Alphonse's life was marked by his active involvement in politics, warfare, and the Crusades. His governance of Toulouse and Poitou showcased his administrative prowess, while his participation in the Crusades demonstrated his unwavering commitment to the cause.
Through his connections to the French royal family, Alphonse exerted significant influence on the course of French politics, shaping the fate of the kingdom in the 13th century.
Alphonse, Count of Poitiers, left an indelible mark on French history, his life a testament to the complex interplay of politics, power, and faith in the medieval period.
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