Philippe VI de Valois holds a significant place in French history as the first king from the House of Valois. Ascending to the throne during a time of political uncertainty and dynastic tension, his reign marked the beginning of one of the most prolonged and complex conflicts in European history the Hundred Years’ War. As king from 1328 to 1350, Philippe VI navigated a period of economic hardship, noble unrest, and emerging English claims to the French crown. Understanding his role, achievements, and challenges provides valuable insight into the foundational shifts in late medieval Europe.
Early Life and Rise to Power
Birth and Family Background
Philippe VI was born in 1293, the son of Charles of Valois and the grandson of King Philip III of France. His lineage placed him within the Capetian dynasty, but not directly in line for the throne. His father, Charles of Valois, was the younger brother of King Philip IV, which gave Philippe a legitimate though secondary claim to royal inheritance. He became Count of Valois and later Duke of Anjou and Count of Maine.
Succession Crisis
In 1328, King Charles IV of France died without a male heir, ending the direct male line of the Capetian dynasty. This led to a crisis over the succession of the French throne. The closest male relative through the male line was Philippe of Valois, while the English King Edward III, a grandson of Philip IV through his mother Isabella of France, also laid claim. However, the French nobility rejected the idea of inheritance through the female line, invoking Salic Law, which excluded women from royal succession. Thus, Philippe VI was chosen and crowned king on May 29, 1328.
The Early Reign of Philippe VI
Stabilizing the Realm
One of Philippe’s first tasks as king was to assert his authority and gain the loyalty of the powerful French nobility. He also had to manage the growing influence of England and maintain control over regions that were restive or economically vital, such as Flanders and Aquitaine. In 1328, he defeated the Flemish at the Battle of Cassel, which helped affirm his military leadership and stabilize the region.
Administration and Finances
Philippe VI’s reign was challenged by economic issues stemming from military campaigns and the rising costs of governance. He imposed taxes and sought to modernize the administration of justice and finance. However, his policies often drew criticism from nobles and commoners alike, particularly during times of inflation and famine.
The Hundred Years’ War Begins
Clash with Edward III
The most defining aspect of Philippe VI’s reign was his rivalry with Edward III of England. The tension culminated in 1337 when Edward III formally declared himself the rightful king of France, triggering the start of the Hundred Years’ War. The English king’s claim was partly motivated by disputes over territories in southwestern France and growing hostilities at sea and in trade.
Battle of Crécy (1346)
One of the most significant military events during Philippe’s reign was the Battle of Crécy in 1346. This confrontation highlighted the strength of English longbowmen and the weaknesses of the French knightly cavalry. Philippe personally led the French army but suffered a devastating defeat. The loss at Crécy marked a turning point in medieval warfare and damaged the king’s military reputation.
Siege of Calais
Following the defeat at Crécy, Edward III laid siege to Calais, a strategically important city. After an eleven-month blockade, the city fell to the English in 1347. The loss of Calais was a major blow to French control in the region and became a symbolic and strategic stronghold for England throughout the Hundred Years’ War.
Personal Life and Legacy
Marriage and Children
Philippe VI married Joan the Lame (Jeanne de Bourgogne), a woman known for her intelligence and piety. Together they had several children, including his successor, John II of France, also known as John the Good. Joan played an active role in court affairs and was a strong supporter of her husband during political challenges.
Death and Succession
Philippe VI died on August 22, 1350, amid growing challenges to his rule and a France weary from war and plague. He was succeeded by his son, John II. By the time of his death, France was struggling with internal division, economic decline, and ongoing military conflict.
Philippe VI and the Black Death
Pandemic Crisis
During the latter years of Philippe’s reign, the Black Death began to spread across Europe. France was hit hard by the plague, which killed millions and drastically reduced the population. The pandemic exacerbated existing tensions, undermined agricultural production, and weakened the already fragile economy.
Impact on Governance
The combined effects of war and plague strained Philippe’s ability to govern effectively. His reliance on taxation and unpopular royal advisors led to discontent, especially among the urban population and lesser nobility. Social unrest grew, setting the stage for future revolts during his son’s reign.
Historical Assessment
Strengths and Weaknesses
Historians often view Philippe VI as a monarch caught between tradition and change. His attempts to maintain the chivalric values of French kingship clashed with the new realities of warfare, economics, and diplomacy. While he managed to secure the throne and defend France’s territorial integrity early in his reign, his failures in later years particularly at Crécy and Calais damaged the kingdom’s prestige and stability.
Influence on French Monarchy
Despite the setbacks, Philippe VI laid the foundation for the Valois dynasty, which would continue to rule France through turbulent times. His reign serves as a critical turning point in understanding the evolution of the French monarchy, from the end of the direct Capetian line to the challenges of centralized governance in the face of dynastic warfare and national identity.
Philippe VI de Valois was a pivotal figure in medieval France, both as the initiator of the Valois line and as the first French monarch to face the trials of the Hundred Years’ War. His reign illustrates the complexity of medieval kingship in a time of dynastic rivalry, military transformation, and social upheaval. Though his legacy is marked by military losses and political difficulties, Philippe’s story is essential to understanding the historical forces that shaped France in the 14th century. His actions and decisions set the course for decades of conflict, defining a new era of European history.