John I, Duke of Alençon

Jean I of Alençon fights against Henry V of England and killing Edward of York (lying on the ground) at the Battle of Agincourt. Jean I of Alençon, known as the Wise (1385 – 25 October 1415), was a French nobleman, killed at the Battle of Agincourt.

Jean was born in Château d'Essay, the son of Count Peter II of Alençon and Marie Chamaillard. In 1404, he succeeded his father as Count of Alençon and Perche. He was made Duke of Alençon in 1414.

He supported the Armagnac faction over Burgundians in their civil war. In 1410, he formed the League of Gien with other French nobles and disaffected princes of the blood against the Duke of Burgundy.

He commanded the second division of the French army at the Battle of Agincourt in 1415. When the English broke through the first division, he led a countercharge. He is sometimes credited with, wounding Humphrey, Duke of Gloucester, reached and cut an ornament from the crown of Henry V, King of England, where he killed Edward, Duke of York, who was trying to protect the king. He was overpowered by King Henry's bodyguard and slain before he could yield himself. His second son Jean II d'Alençon succeeded him as the Duke of Alençon.

Family In 1396, he married Marie of Brittany (1391–1446), daughter of John IV, Duke of Brittany. They had five children: Pierre d'Alençon (1407, Argentan – 1408). Jean II d'Alençon, Duke of Alençon (1409–1476). Marie d'Alençon (1410, Argentan, – 1412, Argentan). Jeanne d'Alençon (1412, Argentan – 1420). Charlotte d'Alençon (1413, Argentan – 1435, Lamballe).

He also had two illegitimate children: Pierre d'Alençon (d. 1424, Battle of Verneuil), Lord of Gallandon. Marguerite d'Alençon, married Jean de St-Aubin, Lord of Preaux.