The Pragmatic Sanction and Gallican Liberties

Charles VII's religious policy demonstrated growing royal confidence in managing ecclesiastical affairs. The Pragmatic Sanction of Bourges (1438) asserted French church autonomy from papal control while increasing royal influence. This document, drawing on conciliar movement ideas, limited papal taxation of French clergy, restricted appeals to Rome, and mandated episcopal elections by cathedral chapters rather than papal appointment.

The Pragmatic Sanction reflected broader European trends toward national churches controlled by secular rulers rather than universal papal authority. While maintaining doctrinal orthodoxy, it created administrative independence that benefited royal power. Cathedral chapters electing bishops proved susceptible to royal pressure, creating de facto royal appointment while maintaining canonical forms. Restrictions on papal taxation freed resources for royal exploitation.

Gallicanism—the doctrine of French church independence—became a fundamental principle of French monarchy. Royal legists argued that the king protected traditional church liberties against papal innovations. This portrayal of monarchy as defender rather than oppressor of ecclesiastical rights enhanced royal legitimacy. The parlements, especially Paris, enthusiastically enforced Gallican principles that increased their own jurisdiction over church affairs.

The papacy's weak response reflected its diminished circumstances. The Great Schism's recent resolution left papal authority fragile. Italian political concerns absorbed papal attention. French military power made confrontation dangerous. Successive popes protested the Pragmatic Sanction but could not force its abandonment. This royal victory over papal claims demonstrated the national monarchy's maturation.