why did the flemish support edward thirds claim to the throne of france?

Answer 1

The Flemish supported Edward III's claim to the throne of France due to several reasons:

1. Economic Interests: The Flemish had strong economic ties with England and relied heavily on English wool for their textile industry. They feared that if France gained control over Flanders, they would lose this important trade relationship. Therefore, supporting Edward III's claim was seen as a means to safeguard their economic interests and maintain England as a trading ally.

2. Historical Connections: The Flemish felt a historic connection to the English monarchy, as the first and second husbands of the Flemish countess Joan of Kent were English. Additionally, Edward III was Ann of England's maternal grandson, which further strengthened the historical relationship between the English and Flemish nobility.

3. Opposition to French Centralization: The Flemish, like other regional powers in France, resented the centralization of power in the French monarchy. They saw Edward III's claim as an opportunity to weaken the French monarchy and support the notion of regional autonomy.

4. Political Alliances: The Flemish had already established strong political alliances with England through various trade agreements and marriage alliances. These alliances influenced their support for Edward III's claim to the French throne.

Overall, the Flemish support for Edward III's claim to the throne of France was driven by a combination of economic interests, historical ties, political alliances, and opposition to French centralization.