Charles, Duke of Berry (1686–1714)

Charles of France, Duke of Berry wearing the sash of the order of the Holy Spirit (18th century, Nicolas de Largillière)

Charles, Duke of Berry (Charles de France; 31 August 1686 – 5 May 1714) was a grandson of Louis XIV of France through his third son, Le Grand Dauphin. His mother was Maria Anna Victoria of Bavaria, Dauphine of France. Charles was born at the Château de Versailles and was a younger brother of Louis, Duke of Burgundy, who was the father of Louis XV of France. Despite his royal lineage, Charles' life was marked by a series of personal tragedies and political disappointments.

Early Life

Charles was born into the reigning House of Bourbon of France, a period marked by the grandeur of the French monarchy. His birth was celebrated as the addition of another prince to the lineage of Louis XIV, Europe's most powerful monarch at the time. From a young age, Charles was given the title Duke of Berry, a title traditionally granted to the third son of the French king.

Marriage and Issue

In 1710, Charles married Marie Louise Élisabeth d'Orléans, the eldest daughter of Philippe II, Duke of Orléans, regent for Louis XV. The marriage was arranged to strengthen the alliance between the branches of the House of Bourbon. Despite their high status, the couple's marriage was troubled, and they had three children, all of whom died young. Their only son, Charles, Duke of Alençon, died shortly after birth, and their two daughters, Marie Louise Élisabeth and Anne Marie Louise, died in infancy.

Political Role

Charles' political role was limited due to the presence of more senior and influential members of the Bourbon family. However, he held several nominal military titles and was involved in various court activities. His life at court was overshadowed by the more prominent figures of his brother, the Duke of Burgundy, and his nephew, the future Louis XV.

Death and Legacy

Charles died in 1714 at the age of 27 from complications of measles. His death marked the end of the direct male line of his branch of the House of Bourbon. The title of Duke of Berry was subsequently passed to his younger brother, Philip V of Spain, who had renounced his rights to the French throne to become King of Spain.

Charles' early death and the demise of his children had significant implications for the succession of the French throne. With the deaths of his brother and nephew in 1712, the direct heirs to Louis XIV were depleted, leading to the eventual accession of Louis XV, his grandnephew, to the throne. This transition period was marked by political instability and set the stage for the regency of Philippe II, Duke of Orléans.

Titles and Honours

Throughout his life, Charles held the title of Duke of Berry. He was also a Knight of the Order of the Holy Spirit, the highest chivalric honor in France, which was bestowed upon him by his grandfather, Louis XIV.