Francois Duke of Anjou

François was born to King Henry II of France and Catherine de' Medici as their youngest son. Originally named Hercule, he was later renamed François after his brother's death.

François contracted smallpox, which left his face badly scarred and stunted his growth. These disfigurements would affect his marriage prospects and self-image throughout his life.

When his brother became King Henry III, François received the title Duke of Anjou. He became heir presumptive to the French throne, as Henry III had no children.

François allied with Protestant nobles against his brother the king, seeking to carve out his own power base. This rebellion forced Henry III to grant concessions to the Huguenots.

François began courting Queen Elizabeth I of England, who was 22 years his senior. Despite his appearance, Elizabeth seemed genuinely fond of him, calling him her 'Frog.'

The Dutch rebels invited François to become their sovereign and lead their revolt against Spain. He saw this as an opportunity to build his own kingdom independent of France.

François visited Elizabeth in England, and they exchanged rings in what appeared to be an engagement. However, English opposition to a French Catholic king consort prevented the marriage.

François was inaugurated as Duke of Brabant in Antwerp, becoming the nominal ruler of the rebellious Dutch provinces. However, his authority was limited and his position precarious.

François attempted to seize Antwerp by force in the 'French Fury,' but his troops were massacred by the citizens. This disaster destroyed his reputation and ended his Dutch ambitions.

After the Antwerp disaster, François returned to France humiliated. His health began to decline, possibly from tuberculosis, and his political prospects were ruined.

François died of tuberculosis, leaving Henry III without an heir. His death made the Protestant Henry of Navarre heir to the French throne, triggering the War of the Three Henrys.