The
union of Brittany and France was a critical step in the formation of modern-day France.
Brittany had been a semi-independent component of the
Kingdom of France since
Clovis I was given authority over the Gallo-Roman domain during the 5th century. It was first recorded as a "duchy" during the rule of
Nominoe in 846. Over the centuries, the fealty demonstrated by the
Duchy of Brittany toward the French king depended significantly on the individuals holding the two titles, as well as the involvement of the
English monarchy at that particular time. The reign of
Francis II, Duke of Brittany, was at an especially crucial time, as the nobles struggled to maintain their autonomy against the increasing central authority desired by
Louis XI of France. As a result of several wars, treaties, and papal decisions, Brittany was united with France through the eventual marriage of Louis XI's son
Charles VIII to the heiress of Brittany,
Anne. However, because of the different systems of inheritance between the two realms, the crown and the duchy were not held by the same hereditary claimant until the reign of
Henry II.