This neutrality was very favourable to the economy, and Brittany at last enjoyed real independence. The dukes of Brittany, especially Jean V (1399-1442) and Francois II (1458 – 1488) behaved like sovereigns and were at the head of a state in which the governmental system was among the most modern of its time (parliament, currency, etc).
Nantes became the capital of the dukedom, instead of Rennes which held the title until then, and would only regain its political importance in the 17th century. Prosperous and powerful, but weakened by its small army, the dukedom of Brittany became a major target for France.
