Gex, Ain

Quick Facts: Who was Gex, Ain?

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Gex, Ain

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A historic commune and subprefecture in the Ain department of France.

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2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

Gex (French pronunciation: [ʒɛks]; Arpitan: Gèx or Gês; Italian: Gesio) is a commune in the department of Ain, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, eastern France and the subprefecture of the department. It lies 5 km (3.1 mi) from the Swiss border and 16 km (9.9 mi) from Geneva. It is a subprefecture of Ain. The town gave its name to the Pays de Gex, at various times under the jurisdiction of France, Switzerland and the Duchy of Savoy.

Career & Major Achievements

The future site of Gex was inhabited around 1800 BC. Around 220 BC, a group of Gallic warriors known as the Gaesatae resided in the area around Gex. Afterwards, the town was part of Roman Gaul. In 1252, Léonette of Geneva, Lady of Gex, descendant of the count of Geneva, Amadeus I, married Simon of Joinville, son of Simon of Joinville and Beatrix of Auxonne, Lady of Marnay.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The city of Gex was included in her dowry. Later that century, the Joinvilles set up a castellan and a judge in the town. On November 13, 1353, the town of Gex as well as its castle were captured by Savoy, and the pays de Gex was incorporated into the Savoyard state for nearly two centuries. The pays de Gex was invaded in 1536 by the Canton of Bern.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 1252: 1252 Milestone — In 1252, Léonette of Geneva, Lady of Gex, descendant of the count of Geneva, Amadeus I, married Simon of Joinville, son of Simon of Joinville and Beatrix of Auxonne, Lady of Marnay.
2. 1353: 1353 Milestone — On November 13, 1353, the town of Gex as well as its castle were captured by Savoy, and the pays de Gex was incorporated into the Savoyard state for nearly two centuries.
3. 1536: 1536 Milestone — The pays de Gex was invaded in 1536 by the Canton of Bern.
4. 1800: 1800 Milestone — The future site of Gex was inhabited around 1800 BC.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Gex, Ain

True or False: “True or false: Gex was permanently incorporated into the Kingdom of France immediately after the Roman period.”

Answer (FALSE ❌): False. Gex's history shows it was subject to the Duchy of Savoy for nearly two centuries after the Roman period, before finally passing to France in 1601.

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