The Second Treaty of Guérande (April 4, 1381) and the Reconciliation of John IV and Olivier de Clisson

The Second Treaty of Guérande, signed on April 4, 1381, formally normalized relations between the Duchy of Brittany and the Kingdom of France, following years of conflict and shifting allegiances during the Hundred Years’ War. This agreement marked the end of open hostilities between Duke John IV of Brittany and the French Crown, re-establishing a tenuous peace in the region.

Terms of the Treaty

• John IV was officially recognized as Duke of Brittany by the French king, Charles VI.
• The treaty restored Brittany’s semi-autonomous status, allowing John IV to rule as a vassal of the French Crown, while maintaining internal independence.
• In return, John IV pledged allegiance to the King of France, promising not to ally with England against France.
• The agreement protected Breton sovereignty, preventing direct French intervention in the duchy’s affairs.

The Alliance Between John IV and Olivier de Clisson (May 30, 1381)

• A month after the Second Treaty of Guérande, Duke John IV and Olivier de Clisson, who had been appointed Constable of France in 1380, signed a treaty of "good allies" on May 30, 1381.
• This agreement sought to end the long-standing personal and political rivalry between John IV and Clisson, who had been one of the main architects of French intervention in Brittany.
• The treaty was reaffirmed on February 27, 1382, strengthening relations between the pro-French faction in Brittany and the Duke’s supporters.

Impact and Legacy

• The Second Treaty of Guérande and the subsequent alliance between John IV and Clisson helped to stabilize Brittany, though tensions between French and English influences remained.
• Clisson’s role as Constable of France ensured that Brittany would remain closely aligned with the Valois monarchy, despite its historical ties to England.
• The treaty allowed John IV to rule without direct interference from France, though his position remained fragile, especially as he continued to navigate between English and French interests.

The Treaty of Guérande (1381) and the alliance between John IV and Clisson helped restore a fragile peace in Brittany, securing French recognition of the Montfortist rule while maintaining the duchy’s autonomy.