Charles IV of France

Charles IV of France, born on June eighteenth, one thousand two hundred ninety-four, was a significant monarch in the history of France and Navarre. As the last king of the direct line of the House of Capet, he ruled as King of France and King of Navarre from the year thirteen twenty-two until his death in thirteen twenty-eight. Known for his striking appearance, he was often referred to as 'the fair' or 'the handsome,' a title he shared with his father, Philip IV.

During his reign, Charles faced numerous challenges, including a peasant revolt in Flanders that began in the year thirteen twenty-three. His ambitions extended beyond France, as he made an unsuccessful attempt to be elected Holy Roman Emperor in thirteen twenty-four. The political landscape was further complicated by his relationship with King Edward II of England, who was a vassal of Charles as Duke of Guyenne but was hesitant to pay homage.

In response to Edward II's reluctance, Charles engaged in the War of Saint-Sardos in thirteen twenty-four, successfully conquering the Duchy of Guyenne. A peace agreement was eventually reached, wherein Edward II swore allegiance to Charles and paid a fine, although Guyenne was returned to him with significantly reduced territory.

Charles IV's reign came to an end when he died without a male heir, leading to the extinction of the senior line of the House of Capet, which had descended from Philip IV. His legacy continued through his niece Joan II, who succeeded him in Navarre, and his paternal first cousin Philip of Valois, who took the throne in France. The succession dispute between the Valois and the English monarchs, descended from Charles's sister Isabella, played a crucial role in the onset of the Hundred Years' War.