Philip VI of France, the first king of the Valois dynasty, faced numerous challenges during his reign from 1328 until his death. His ascension to the throne was met with opposition from his cousin Edward III of England, sparking the Hundred Years’ War in 1337. Despite his efforts, Philip struggled to assert his monarchical power and faced crises throughout his rule. The development of the estates further complicated matters, and Philip’s attempts to stabilize the economy only worsened the situation. However, he did manage to acquire the Dauphiné and Montpellier in the Languedoc before his death in 1350. He was succeeded by his eldest son, John II, the Good.
Quick Facts
- Also Known As: Philip, the Fortunate
- Died At Age: 57
- Family:
- Spouse/Ex-: Blanche of Navarre, Joan the Lame (m. 1313–1349), Queen of France (m. 1350–1350)
- Father: Charles, Count of Valois
- Mother: Countess of Anjou, Margaret
- Siblings: Charles II; Count of Alençon, Margaret of Valois; Countess of Blois
- Children: Duke of Orléans, Joan of France, John II of France, Philip
- Born Country: France
- Emperors & Kings
- French Men
- Died on: August 22, 1350
- Place of Death: Nogent-le-Roi, France
- Cause of Death: Plague
Childhood & Early Life
Philip VI of France was born in 1293 to Charles, Count of Valois, and Margaret, Countess of Anjou. He had many siblings and half-siblings, including Isabelle de Valois, Charles ‘le Magnanime’ de Valois, Jeanne de Valois, Catherine de Valois, Margaret de Brossard, Anne Valois, Jean de Valois, Antoine Valois, and Catherine II de Valois-Courtenay. In 1328, his first cousin Charles IV passed away without a male heir, giving Philip the right to access the throne along with Charles’ nephew, King Edward III of England. Philip became the regent instead of Edward due to his status as Philip III’s eldest grandson.
Accession & Reign
Philip VI of France was crowned as king on May 29, 1328. His reign started with a triumph over Flanders at the Battle of Cassel. Initially, he had friendly relations with Edward III and even planned a campaign with him in 1332. However, their relationship deteriorated, and Philip also faced challenges from his trusted adviser Robert of Artois, who committed forgery. This led to the declaration of the Hundred Years’ War in 1337.
The Hundred Years’ War
Philip VI of France faced the initial years of the Hundred Years’ War with strength. France was wealthier and more populous than England, giving them an advantage. However, the English army gained the upper hand by the mid-1340s. The French kingdom suffered defeats, and the Black Death epidemic further worsened their condition. Philip’s last major achievement was the procurement of the province of Dauphiné and the territory of Montpellier in 1349.
Final Years
Philip VI of France died on August 22, 1350, at Coulombes Abbey, Eure-et-Loir. Following his death, France experienced social unrest and became a divided nation. He was succeeded by his eldest son, John II, the Good.
Family & Personal Life
Philip VI of France married Joan the Lame in July 1313, and they had nine children. After Joan’s death in 1349, Philip married Blanche of Navarre in 1350, and they had a daughter named Joan. However, Joan died before her marriage.