War of the Breton Succession
Quick Summary
The War of the Breton Succession was a 20-year conflict for control of the Duchy of Brittany. It began in 1341 after the death of Duke John III, who had no direct heirs. Two main claimants emerged: Charles of Blois, nephew of the French king, and John of Montfort, who initially recognized Charles but later asserted his own claim.
This dispute drew in England and France, becoming entangled with the larger Hundred Years' War. John of Montfort was supported by England's Edward III, while Charles of Blois was backed by France's Philip VI. The war saw significant battles, including the famous Combat of the Thirty in 1351, a small but chivalrous engagement between thirty knights on each side. Ultimately, the house of Montfort eventually won control of Brittany, with John IV becoming duke.123
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