Alan Steppe
Henry II of France ruled as King of France from 1547 to 1559. He was married to Catherine de’ Medici, and together they had several children. Their offspring played significant roles in the political and religious affairs of France during the subsequent reigns. Here are the children of Henry II and Catherine de’ Medici:
Francis II of France (1544–1560): He became king in 1559 after Henry II’s death but ruled for only a short period before his own death in 1560.
Elizabeth of Valois (1545–1568): She married Philip II of Spain.
Claude of Valois (1547–1575): She became Duchess of Lorraine through her marriage to Charles III, Duke of Lorraine.
Louis, Duke of Orléans (1549–1550): He died in infancy.
Charles IX of France (1550–1574): He became King of France after the death of his older brother, Francis II.
Henry III of France (1551–1589): He was originally Duke of Anjou and later became the last of the Valois kings after the death of Charles IX. He was succeeded by the Bourbon king, Henry IV.
Margaret of Valois (1553–1615): Often referred to as “Queen Margot,” she was married to Henry IV of France, but the marriage was later annulled. She played a role in the religious and political intrigues of her time.
Hercules (1555–1584): Later renamed Francis, Duke of Anjou. He involved himself in various political intrigues, including attempts to become the sovereign of the Netherlands.
In addition to these children, Catherine de’ Medici and Henry II had other children who died young or in infancy.
