Blanche of Artois

Blanche of Artois was born around 1248 as the elder child and only daughter of Robert I, Count of Artois, and Matilda of Brabant. She married Henry I of Navarre by February 1269, becoming Queen of Navarre and Countess of Champagne and Brie. After Henry's death in 1274, Blanche became regent for their daughter, Joan I, and managed the administration of Champagne.

During her regency, Blanche sought protection from her cousin, King Philip III of France, due to political pressures. She later married Edmund Crouchback, brother of King Edward I of England, and they jointly administered Champagne and Brie until Joan reached majority. Blanche had four children with Edmund, including Thomas and Henry, who became English nobles.

Blanche of Artois died on 2 May 1302 and was buried at the Cordeliers Convent in Paris. Her daughter, Joan I, succeeded her as the ruler of Navarre and Champagne.