History glossary
Capetian
the French royal dynasty descended from Hugh Capet, whose direct male line failed in 1328.
- Category
- Dynasty
- Region
- France
- Date range
- 987-1328
What it means
The Capetians were the French royal dynasty descended from Hugh Capet, king from 987. Their long run of father-to-son succession gave the French monarchy unusual stability until the direct male line failed in 1328, creating the crisis behind Edward III's claim.
Related terms
Stories using this term
The Hundred Years War
From Edward III's claim to Joan of Arc, Agincourt and Castillon, the Hundred Years War reshaped England, France and medieval warfare.
Feudalism and Medieval Society
From the estates of Charlemagne's empire to the flowering of Gothic cathedrals, this story explores how feudal hierarchies, manorial agriculture, and Church authority shaped the lives of kings, knights, and peasants alike.
