John II (French: Jean II; 26 April 1319 – 8 April 1364), known as John the Good (French: Jean le Bon), was King of France from 1350 until his death in 1364. He ascended to the throne during a period marked by significant challenges, including the Black Death, which decimated the population, popular revolts known as Jacqueries, the plundering by free companies, and military losses to England, notably at the Battle of Poitiers in 1356, where he was captured.While John was imprisoned in London, his son Charles served as regent and faced several rebellions, which he managed to suppress. To secure his father's release, Charles negotiated the Treaty of Brétigny in 1360, which resulted in France ceding substantial territories and paying a large ransom. John was released in exchange for hostages, including his son Louis I, Duke of Anjou. Upon his return to France, he attempted to stabilize the currency by creating the franc and sought to eliminate the free companies by sending them on a crusade, although this plan was thwarted by the death of Pope Innocent VI before their meeting.John was born to Philip VI and became Duke of Normandy at the age of thirteen. His marriage to Bonne of Bohemia was arranged to strengthen alliances. After Bonne's death from the Black Death in 1349, John married Joan I, Countess of Auvergne, in 1350. He inherited a weakened military and issued the military ordinances of 1351 to reform the French army, aiming to centralize command and improve discipline. However, resistance from the nobility hindered the implementation of these reforms.The Battle of Poitiers resulted in a significant defeat for the French, with John captured by the English. His captivity was marked by a relatively comfortable lifestyle, and he was eventually ransomed through the Treaty of Brétigny. Following the escape of his son Louis from captivity in 1363, John chose to return to England voluntarily to negotiate his situation, demonstrating a commitment to honor despite the risks involved.John died in April 1364 in the Savoy Palace in London after falling ill. His body was returned to France for burial at the Basilica of Saint Denis. He was succeeded by his eldest son, Charles V, who would later implement further reforms that strengthened the French monarchy.

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John II of France