Margaret of France, Queen of England (b. 1282)

Margaret of France (c. 1279 – 14 February 1318) held the distinguished title of Queen of England as the second wife of King Edward I. Born into a powerful European royal house, she was a daughter of Philip III, King of France, and his second wife, Maria of Brabant, linking her directly to the Capetian dynasty.

A French Princess: Lineage and Early Life

Margaret's heritage was steeped in royal prestige. Her father, Philip III, often known as "Philip the Bold," reigned as King of France from 1270 to 1285. He was the son of the revered Louis IX, Saint Louis, making Margaret a granddaughter of one of France's most iconic and pious monarchs. Her mother, Maria of Brabant, was a politically astute queen who even served as a regent for her stepson, Philip IV "the Fair," for a period after Philip III's death. This formidable parentage meant Margaret grew up amidst the intricate diplomatic and political landscape of medieval Europe. She was also the half-sister of the powerful Philip IV of France, whose diplomatic dealings would profoundly shape her destiny.

A Strategic Union: The Marriage to King Edward I

Margaret's marriage to King Edward I of England in 1299 was not primarily a love match but a critical political alliance aimed at fostering peace between two perennially rival kingdoms. Edward I, a widower since the death of his beloved first wife, Eleanor of Castile, in 1290, was engaged in a costly and protracted conflict with Margaret's half-brother, Philip IV of France, over the Duchy of Gascony. The peace negotiations culminated in the Treaty of Montreuil in June 1299, which formally stipulated the marriage between Edward and Margaret as a cornerstone of the agreement. Despite a considerable age disparity—Edward was around 60 years old while Margaret was approximately 20—the union proceeded, with the wedding ceremony taking place on 8 September 1299 at Canterbury Cathedral.

Queen of England: Affection, Children, and Influence

Despite the initial political nature and significant age gap, the marriage between Margaret and Edward I surprisingly blossomed into a genuinely affectionate relationship. Edward, known for his formidable will and stern demeanor, became deeply devoted to his young queen. Margaret quickly earned the respect and admiration of the English court, noted for her beauty, piety, and gentle nature. She bore Edward two sons and a daughter, further securing the Plantagenet line:

Her influence extended beyond childbearing; Margaret reportedly exerted a positive, calming effect on her powerful husband. She was known to intercede on behalf of individuals, including some Welsh rebels, and maintained a good relationship with her stepson, the future Edward II. Her presence brought a sense of stability and warmth to the English court, often acting as a mediator and a voice of compassion.

Widowhood and Enduring Legacy

King Edward I died on 7 July 1307, leaving Margaret a widow at the young age of approximately 28. Despite being encouraged to remarry, she steadfastly refused, famously declaring, "When Edward died, all men died for me." She remained a revered figure in England, holding substantial dower lands, including Marlborough Castle and Berkhampstead Castle, which ensured her financial independence and position. She devoted her remaining years to piety, charitable works, and the upbringing of her young sons. Margaret of France passed away on 14 February 1318, at the age of about 39, and was laid to rest at the Greyfriars Church in Greenwich, London. Her legacy is that of a beloved queen who not only fulfilled her political duties but also brought affection and stability to a powerful king, while demonstrating remarkable personal integrity and strength.

Frequently Asked Questions about Margaret of France

Who was Margaret of France?
Margaret of France was Queen of England, the second wife of King Edward I. She was a daughter of King Philip III of France and Maria of Brabant, placing her within the Capetian royal lineage.
What were her birth and death dates?
She was born around 1279 and passed away on 14 February 1318, at approximately 39 years of age.
Why was her marriage to King Edward I significant?
Her marriage, solemnized in 1299 under the Treaty of Montreuil, was a crucial political alliance designed to end a long-standing conflict between England and France over Gascony. Despite a considerable age difference, it developed into a deeply affectionate union.
How many children did Margaret of France have with Edward I?
She had three children with King Edward I: two sons, Thomas of Brotherton and Edmund of Woodstock, and a daughter named Eleanor, who died in infancy.
Did Queen Margaret remarry after King Edward I's death?
No, she chose not to remarry after King Edward I's death in 1307, famously stating her enduring devotion to him and living out her widowhood in piety and independence.