A Cyclopaedia of Female Biography/Jeanne de Bourbon

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4120630A Cyclopaedia of Female Biography — Jeanne de Bourbon

JEANNE DE BOURBON,

Daughter of Pierre the First, Duke de Bourbon, was born at Vincennes, near Paris, February 3rd., 1337. In 1350, when about thirteen, she married Charles, who was nearly the same age, afterwards Charles the Fifth of France, eldest son of King John. She was a very beautiful woman, and her husband was much attached to her. He had a high opinion of her judgment, often consulted her on state affairs, and loved to see her surrounded by all the pomp and luxury suited to her station. On days of solemnity, Charles frequently brought his wife, whom he called "the sun of his kingdom," with him to the parliament, where she took her seat by his side. By his will, he left the regency to Jeanne, although he had three brothers of mature age. However, his queen died before him, at the Hotel de St. Paul, in Paris, February 11th, 1378. Her death proved a real misfortune to France. She is spoken of by historians as one of the most accomplished and virtuous princesses of her time.