John II, Duke of Brittany was born in 1239 and became the Duke of Brittany in 1286. He was the son of John I, Duke of Brittany and Blanche of Navarre. His reign was marked by efforts to strengthen the duchy's independence and manage its relations with the French crown. During his rule, John II faced challenges from both internal factions and external pressures, particularly from King Philip IV of France. He was known for his diplomatic skills and worked to maintain peace in the region. John II passed away in 1305, leaving a legacy of resilience in the face of political challenges.