What was the Praguerie revolt of 1440?

The Praguerie was a 1440 revolt of French princes and nobles against King Charles VII. The uprising was triggered by the king’s 1439 military ordinance, which restricted the private raising of troops and threatened the livelihoods of mercenary captains.1

The rebellion was led by Charles I, Duke de Bourbon, and Jean II, Duke d’Alençon, who utilized the 16-year-old dauphin—the future Louis XI—as their figurehead. Louis, who was impatient to reign, was induced by these malcontent princes to lead the movement. Despite the rebels' proposals to reduce taxation and seek peace with England, the general populace and towns remained loyal to the king.12

The revolt began in Poitou in February 1440 but was quickly suppressed by the Constable de Richemont. The rebels were defeated and ultimately secured peace on generous terms at Cusset in July 1440. Following the conflict, Charles VII pardoned his son and appointed him ruler of the Dauphiné.12