Louis XI | Brief Biography
Louis XI
Louis XI, also known as Louis the Prudent, was King of France from 1461 to 1483. Born on July 3, 1423, in Tours, France, he was the son of Charles VII and Marie of Anjou.
Louis XI came to the throne after the death of his father, Charles VII. His early reign was marked by conflict with powerful feudal lords, including Charles the Bold, Duke of Burgundy, who posed a significant threat to the French throne. Louis was able to defeat Charles and consolidates his power, becoming one of the strongest kings in French history.
During his reign, Louis XI initiated many reforms aimed at strengthening the central government and reducing the power of the feudal lords. He reorganized the financial administration and established a system of indirect taxation. He also expanded the royal domain by buying lands and incorporating them into the crown lands. He also reformed the legal system and strengthened the justice system, making it more efficient and fair.
Louis XI was known for his diplomatic skills, and he made alliances with various European states, including England, Burgundy, and the Papacy. He also supported the arts and encouraged the development of trade and commerce. He founded the Order of St. Michael, which became an important symbol of the French monarchy.
Despite his efforts to strengthen the central government, Louis XI faced opposition from the feudal lords, who resented his reforms. He was also criticized for his oppressive policies, including the use of spies and the imposition of heavy taxes. Nevertheless, his reign marked a turning point in French history, as it paved the way for the development of a strong, centralized state.
Louis XI died on August 30, 1483, in the Chateau de Plessis-les-Tours. He was succeeded by his son, Charles VIII. 0 0 0.
Sources:
“Louis XI.” Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 13 Feb. 2023.
“Louis XI.” BBC – History. BBC, n.d. Web. 13 Feb. 2023.
“Louis XI.” History.com. A&E Television Networks, n.d. Web. 13 Feb. 2023.
Hallam, Elizabeth M. “Capetian France 987-1328.” In A Companion to Medieval England 1066-1485, edited by Nigel Saul. Oxford: Blackwell, 2007.
5. Dunbabin, Jean. “France in the Fifteenth Century.” In The Oxford Illustrated History of Medieval Europe, edited by George Holmes. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1988. ***
N.B. The article originally belongs to the book ‘Brief Biographies of Eminent Monarchs‘ by Menonim Menonimus.
Books of Biography by M. Menonimus:
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- Love of Reputed Persons
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