that was gradually divided into several feudal polities. One of them, encompassing much of the Upper Burgundy, became known as the County of Burgundy, and since 1032 it belonged to the Holy Roman Empire. The name "Free County of Burgundy" (Franche Comté de Bourgogne; Freigrafschaft Burgund) did not appear officially until 1366.

The Free County Franche Comté was acquired by John the Fearless,