Marie of Cleves, Duchess of Orléans
The steadfast German duchess who managed a great French ducal household and lineage through the tumult of the Hundred Years' War.
1426–1487 (age 61)·Duchess of Orléans·Birthday: September 19
Biography
Born into the strategic nexus of the House of Cleves and Burgundy, Marie of Cleves was a political asset married off to Charles, Duke of Orléans, a man 32 years her senior who had spent decades as a prisoner of war in England. Her life was one of duty and administration, not romance. While her husband was famously a poet, Marie's role was to secure the future of the Orléans line in a France still reeling from war with England. She succeeded, bearing three children, including the future King Louis XII. As duchess, she navigated the complex court politics of the Valois kings, overseeing vast estates and ensuring the family's stability. Her legacy is that of a capable matriarch whose bloodline would eventually sit on the French throne.
#1 When Marie Was Born
The biggest hits of 1426
Marie's Life & Times
The world at every milestone
1426Born
1431Started school
1439Became a teenager
1442Could drive
1444Could vote
1447Turned 21
1456Turned 30
1466Turned 40
1476Turned 50
1486Turned 60
1487Died at 61
Key Achievements
- Became Duchess of Orléans as the third wife of Charles d'Orléans, securing the dynasty's continuation.
- Mother of Louis XII, who became King of France in 1498.
- Successfully managed the Orléans household and estates during a period of political instability.
- Acted as a link between the French royal court and her powerful Burgundian and Cleves relatives.
Did You Know?
She was only 14 years old when she married the 46-year-old Duke of Orléans.
Her son, Louis XII, was born when his father, Charles, was 71 years old.
She was the great-granddaughter of John the Fearless, Duke of Burgundy.
Her marriage was arranged by Philip the Good, Duke of Burgundy, to strengthen his influence in France.
“My duty is to the house, not the heart.”
