François, Duke of Anjou

Quick Facts: Who was François, Duke of Anjou?

Subject:

François, Duke of Anjou

Known for:

French prince, Duke of Anjou, who became heir to the French throne.

Born:

1555-03-18

Died:

1584-06-19

Century / Era:

1555s Historical Era Archive

Verified Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

Monsieur François, Duke of Anjou and Alençon (French: Hercule François; 18 March 1555 – 10 June 1584) was the youngest son of King Henry II of France and Catherine de' Medici. He was scarred by smallpox at age eight, and his pitted face and slightly deformed spine did not suit his birth name of Hercule. He changed his name to Francis in honour of his late brother Francis II of France when he was confirmed.

Career & Major Achievements

The royal children were raised under the supervision of the governor and governess of the royal children, Claude d'Urfé and Françoise d'Humières, under the orders of Diane de Poitiers. In 1574, following the death of his brother Charles IX of France and the accession of his other brother, Henry III of France, he became heir to the throne. In 1576 he was made Duke of Anjou, Touraine, and Berry.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

His brother Henry III had previously been Duke of Anjou. During the night of 13 September 1575, Alençon fled from the French court after being alienated from his brother King Henry III as they had had some differences. Both Henry III and Catherine de' Medici feared he would join the Protestant rebels.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 1555 (1555-03-18): Birth of François, Duke of Anjou — French prince, Duke of Anjou, who became heir to the French throne.
2. 1574: 1574 Milestone — In 1574, following the death of his brother Charles IX of France and the accession of his other brother, Henry III of France, he became heir to the throne.
3. 1575: 1575 Milestone — During the night of 13 September 1575, Alençon fled from the French court after being alienated from his brother King Henry III as they had had some differences.
4. 1576: 1576 Milestone — In 1576 he was made Duke of Anjou, Touraine, and Berry.
5. 1584 (1584-06-19): Passing & Historical Legacy — François, Duke of Anjou passed away on 1584-06-19, leaving an enduring historical legacy.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: François, Duke of Anjou

True or False: “True or false: François, Duke of Anjou, was the eldest son of King Henry II of France.”

Answer (FALSE ❌): False. François was the youngest son of King Henry II and Catherine de' Medici, not the eldest.

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Frequently Asked Questions about François, Duke of Anjou