René II (1451-1508) was the Duke of Lorraine from 1473 until his death. He was the son of Ferry II of Lorraine and Margaret of the Palatinate. René II is best known for his victory over Charles the Bold of Burgundy at the Battle of Nancy in 1477, which helped to secure his rule and the independence of Lorraine. In addition to his military achievements, René II was a patron of the arts and education. He supported the establishment of universities and promoted cultural development in his duchy. His reign is often seen as a period of relative stability and growth for Lorraine.