Philip VI of France

Philip VI of France, born on November seventeenth, one thousand two hundred ninety-three, was the inaugural monarch of the House of Valois, reigning from one thousand three hundred twenty-eight until his death in one thousand three hundred fifty. His ascension to the throne followed the death of King Charles IV, which sparked a significant succession dispute. The French nobility favored Philip, a paternal cousin of Charles, over Edward III of England, who was the nearest male relative.

Initially, Edward appeared to accept Philip's claim to the throne. However, tensions escalated due to a series of disagreements, ultimately leading to the outbreak of the Hundred Years' War in one thousand three hundred thirty-seven. Philip's navy experienced early successes at sea, but suffered a devastating defeat at the Battle of Sluys in one thousand three hundred forty, which shifted the conflict to the continent.

The war continued to unfold with significant battles, including the English victory at the Battle of Crécy in one thousand three hundred forty-six. Compounding the challenges of his reign, the Black Death struck France, further destabilizing the nation. In one thousand three hundred forty-nine, Philip expanded French territory by purchasing the Dauphiné of Viennois, a county under the Holy Roman Empire's suzerainty, formalized through a treaty with Humbert II, the dauphin of Viennois.

This acquisition not only enhanced French influence beyond the Rhône River but also set the stage for future generations, as the province was entrusted to Philip's grandson, Charles, who would later become King Charles V. Philip VI passed away in one thousand three hundred fifty, leaving behind a complex legacy and was succeeded by his son, John II.