Charles, Count of Valois: The Ambitious Royal with a Thirst for Power
A Life of Pursuing Crowns and Principalities
Charles, Count of Valois, was a member of the House of Capet and founder of the House of Valois, whose rule over France would start in 1328. He is most notable for his numerous pursuits of crowns and principalities throughout his life, earning him a reputation as a relentless and ambitious royal.
Early Life and Family Ties
Born on March 12, 1270, Charles was the fourth son of King Philip III of France and Isabella of Aragon. As a grandson of King
Louis IX of France, he was a son, brother, brother-in-law, and son-in-law of kings or queens of France, Navarre, England, and Naples.
Principalities and Titles
Throughout his life, Charles held various principalities and titles, including:
- Count of Valois
- Count of Alençon (1285)
- Count of Perche
- Count of Anjou and Maine (through his marriage to Margaret, Countess of Anjou and Maine)
- Titular Latin Emperor of Constantinople (1301-1307, through his marriage to Catherine I of Courtenay, Empress of Constantinople)
Marriages and Alliances
Charles' two marriages played a significant role in his pursuit of power and principalities. His first marriage to Margaret, Countess of Anjou and Maine, granted him the counties of Anjou and Maine. His second marriage to Catherine I of Courtenay, Empress of Constantinople, made him the titular Latin Emperor of Constantinople, although he ruled from exile and only had authority over Crusader States in Greece.
Quest for the Throne of Aragon
Starting in 1284, Pope Martin IV recognized Charles as King of Aragon under the vassalage of the Holy See, as the son of his mother, Isabella of Aragon. This recognition was in opposition to King
Peter III of Aragon, who had conquered the island of Sicily and was an enemy of the Papacy. Charles' marriage to Margaret, the daughter of the Neapolitan king, was an attempt to reinforce his position in Sicily.
Legacy and Impact
Although Charles never obtained the crowns he sought, his descendants, the House of Valois, would become the royal house of France three years after his death, beginning with his eldest son King Philip VI of France. Charles' ambitions and pursuits of power laid the foundation for the rise of the House of Valois, making him a significant figure in French history.
Personal Milestones and Key Life Events
- March 12, 1270: Born as the fourth son of King Philip III of France and Isabella of Aragon
- 1285: Became Count of Alençon
- 1290: Became Count of Anjou and Maine through his marriage to Margaret, Countess of Anjou and Maine
- 1301-1307: Titular Latin Emperor of Constantinople through his marriage to Catherine I of Courtenay, Empress of Constantinople
- December 16, 1325: Died, paving the way for his descendants to become the royal house of France
Charles' relentless pursuit of power and principalities may not have granted him the crowns he desired, but it ultimately led to the rise of the House of Valois, making him a significant figure in French history.
FAQ
Who was Charles, Count of Valois?
Charles, Count of Valois was a French nobleman and the son of Philip III of France. He lived from 1270 to 1325 and held several titles, including Count of Valois, Alençon, and Perche.
What was Charles, Count of Valois role in the French monarchy?
Charles, Count of Valois was a prominent figure in the French monarchy, serving as regent for his nephew, Philip IV, and later for his great-nephew, Philip V.
What was Charles, Count of Valois relationship with the English monarchy?
Charles, Count of Valois was married to Margaret of Anjou, Countess of Anjou, and claimed the English throne through her. He was involved in the Hundred Years War and fought against the English in several battles.
What are the notable achievements of Charles, Count of Valois?
Charles, Count of Valois was a skilled military leader and played a key role in the French victory at the Battle of Mons-en-Pévèle in 1304.
What is Charles, Count of Valois legacy?
Charles, Count of Valois is remembered as a capable and ambitious nobleman who played a significant role in shaping the course of French history during the 14th century.
