The Peace of Cusset and the End of the Praguerie (September 1440)

In September 1440, the aristocratic rebellion known as the Praguerie concluded with the Peace of Cusset, a settlement demonstrating King Charles VII's diplomatic prudence and political acumen. Despite their earlier defiance, the leading rebels—including prominent figures such as Jean II, Duke of Alençon (a veteran of Joan of Arc's victory at Orleans), and Jean, comte de Dunois—received notably lenient treatment. Under the treaty’s generous terms, most rebel leaders, notably the Dauphin Louis himself, were quickly reintegrated into royal favor.

Charles VII’s approach emphasized reconciliation over retribution. He secured the loyalty of Charles I, Duke of Bourbon, a key instigator of the rebellion, through the strategic grant of a substantial pension, signaling forgiveness and renewed trust. Furthermore, Charles extended amnesty broadly to rebellious nobles and placed the Dauphin in Dauphiné, effectively removing him from the immediate orbit of rebellious influence and potential intrigue.

With the enforcement of the Ordinance of Orléans, Charles VII consolidated his authority by maintaining centralized royal control over military organization and restricting the power of the nobility to raise private forces. Crucially, France avoided a devastating civil war through the decisive actions of royal commanders, notably Constable Arthur de Richemont, and the unwavering support from loyal urban centers—France’s "good cities."

The outcome of the Praguerie thus not only strengthened the monarchy's political position but also underscored the effectiveness of Charles’s policies and administration, marking a significant step towards greater royal centralization and stability in mid-15th century France.