John II, Duke of Alençon
A French duke who fought beside Joan of Arc and became a key military commander in the final chapter of the Hundred Years' War.
1409–1476 (age 67)·15th-century Duke of Alençon·Birthday: March 2
Biography
John II of Alençon was thrust into his title as a child after his father fell at Agincourt, his lands controlled by English and Burgundian forces during his minority. Coming of age, he emerged as a fierce and capable military leader, passionately committed to the Valois cause. His greatest historical moment arrived when he became an early and vital supporter of Joan of Arc, fighting alongside her at the Siege of Orléans and the subsequent Loire Campaign, where his troops and tactical support were instrumental. Despite later falling out with King Charles VII over political intrigues and facing imprisonment for treason, his earlier martial contributions helped turn the tide of the long war. His life embodies the turbulent blend of chivalric loyalty, personal ambition, and the brutal realities of 15th-century French politics.
#1 When John Was Born
The biggest hits of 1409
John's Life & Times
The world at every milestone
1409Born
1414Started school
1422Became a teenager
1425Could drive
1427Could vote
1430Turned 21
1439Turned 30
1449Turned 40
1459Turned 50
1469Turned 60
1476Died at 67
Key Achievements
- Commanded French forces as a lieutenant general alongside Joan of Arc at the pivotal Siege of Orléans in 1429.
- Played a leading role in the French victory at the Battle of Patay, a decisive engagement in the Loire Campaign.
- Served as a senior military commander for King Charles VII during the final phase of the Hundred Years' War.
- Successfully reclaimed control of his Duchy of Alençon from English occupation after his return from captivity in 1429.
Did You Know?
He was only six years old when he inherited the dukedom.
He was captured by the English at the Battle of Verneuil in 1424 and held for several years until a large ransom was paid.
Later in life, he was convicted of treason against King Louis XI and sentenced to death, though the sentence was commuted to imprisonment.
Historical accounts suggest he was one of the few military commanders who treated Joan of Arc as a genuine leader from their first meeting.
“I will not rest until the English are driven from my lands and my father's death is avenged.”
