The House of Capet
The House of Capet was a prominent dynasty that ruled over the kingdom of France from 987 to 1328. This house was founded by Hugh Capet, who became the first Capetian king when he was elected to the throne following the death of the last Carolingian king, Louis V, in 987.
Origins and Election of Hugh Capet
- Hugh Capet: Born around 940, Hugh was the Count of Paris and Duke of the Franks. He was a descendant of the Robertians, a family that had previously produced several Carolingian rulers.
- Election: Hugh was elected by the nobles of France, marking the end of the Carolingian dynasty and the beginning of a new era in French monarchy. His election was influenced by the need for a strong leader to unify the fragmented feudal territories.
Consolidation of Power
- Succession: The Capetians established the principle of hereditary succession, although initially, the practice was not strictly followed. The early Capetian kings were often elected by the nobles from among the Capetian family.
- Domain Expansion: The Capetian kings slowly expanded their royal domain by strategic marriages, purchases, and conquests. Key expansions included the acquisition of Normandy and Aquitaine.
Notable Rulers
- Philip II Augustus: One of the most significant Capetian rulers, he greatly expanded the royal domain, fought in the Third Crusade, and laid the groundwork for the modern French state.
- Louis IX (Saint Louis): Known for his piety, Louis IX was canonized as a saint. He reformed the legal system and strengthened the monarchy's power.
- Philip IV the Fair: His reign saw the transformation of the French monarchy into a more centralized and bureaucratic state. He was involved in numerous conflicts, including the War of the Vespers.
The End of Capetian Direct Line
- Salic Law: The Capetian direct line ended with the death of Charles IV in 1328. The application of the Salic Law, which barred women from inheriting the throne, led to the ascension of the House of Valois, a cadet branch of the Capetian dynasty.
Legacy
- The Capetians left a lasting impact on France. They centralized power, established a more stable succession, and expanded the royal domain, setting the stage for the absolute monarchy that would follow under the Bourbon Dynasty.
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