France monarchy

Hugh Capet

was originally a feudal lord in France with large land holdings. In order to become recognized as king, he gave much of his lands to other lords in order to gain recognition as king.  In surrendering his lands for the kingship, he also surrendered much of his personal power. his story shows the problems in the hierarchy system; the kings need the lords and the lords need the kings. He crossed up the nobility by immediately naming his son as co-ruler, making the crown hereditary based on primogeniture.

Phillip II Agustus

France rebounds in power under him.  When the English King John fought his own nephew for control of England, he supported the nephew (Arthur). When John killed Arthur, him and John went to war.  he wins the war, regaining much French territory formerly governed by England, Battle of Bouvines, Ballies, Albigensian Crusade

Lois IX

Considered the most chivalrous monarch of his age, he gained fame for judicial reform to secure justice for rich and poor. He was the 1^st French king to issue laws for the whole country based solely on his authority. he detested feudal warfare and eventually outlawed all private wars. He died while on the 8^th Crusade of dysentery/typhus.

Phillip IV (The fair)

formed a parliament, Estates General, suffered financial issues