Charles V of France Biography

Charles V of France, also known as “Charles V, the Wise,” was the king of France who reigned from 1364 until his death in 1380. He is best remembered for rebuilding the nation following the losses incurred during the Hundred Years’ War and the catastrophic Anglo-French settlement of 1360. Having received the province of Dauphiné in 1349, Charles V of France held the title of Dauphin until his accession to the throne. He became the regent after his father, John II the Good, was held by the English forces at the Battle of Poitiers in 1356. Charles overcame all the rebellions from the opposition and concluded the Treaty of Brétigny in 1360 to liberate his father. He became the king in 1364 and quickly restored the royal treasury and esteem of the House of Valois. He continued the war with the English, fighting them at every point possible. By 1375, the king had regained most of the English territories in France. His last years were marked by the abolition of the hearth tax. Charles V of France died in 1380 and was succeeded by his son, then-11-year-old Charles VI.