Charles, Count of Valois
A French prince whose ambition and military campaigns inadvertently secured the throne for his descendants, founding a royal dynasty that would rule for over 250 years.
1270–1325 (age 55)·French prince and nobleman·Birthday: March 12
Biography
Born in 1270 as the younger son of King Philip III, Charles of Valois spent his life grasping for a crown that would never be his. He was a quintessential medieval prince, a man of relentless martial and political energy channeled into the pursuit of kingdoms. He married heiresses, led armies, and even accepted a papal offer to become Emperor of Constantinople, a title more symbolic than substantial. His true legacy, however, was forged not by his own reign but by his bloodline. When the direct Capetian line died out in 1328, his son Philip was thrust onto the French throne as Philip VI, founding the House of Valois. Thus, Charles’s lifelong quest for power was fulfilled posthumously, setting the stage for the Valois monarchs who would navigate the Hundred Years' War and the Renaissance.
#1 When Charles, Was Born
The biggest hits of 1270
Charles,'s Life & Times
The world at every milestone
1270Born
1275Started school
1283Became a teenager
1286Could drive
1288Could vote
1291Turned 21
1300Turned 30
1310Turned 40
1320Turned 50
1325Died at 55
Key Achievements
- Founded the House of Valois, the royal dynasty that ruled France from 1328 until 1589.
- Led multiple military campaigns, including an expedition to Aragon and efforts to claim the crown of Constantinople.
- Served as a key political and military advisor to his brother, King Philip IV of France.
Did You Know?
He was the grandfather of King John II of France, who was captured by the English at the Battle of Poitiers.
His daughter married the future Holy Roman Emperor, Charles IV.
He was buried in the now-destroyed church of the Couvent des Jacobins in Paris.
“I have fought for thrones in Sicily, Constantinople, and France, yet I wear no crown.”
