Louis II of Italy

Louis II, born in eight hundred twenty-five, emerged as a significant figure in the Carolingian Empire, serving as the king of Italy and later as emperor. His reign began in eight hundred forty-four, where he initially co-ruled with his father, Lothair I, until eight hundred fifty-five, after which he took the reins of power alone.

Known primarily by the title imperator augustus, Louis II's authority expanded following his conquest of Bari in eight hundred seventy-one, prompting him to adopt the title imperator Romanorum, or 'emperor of the Romans.' This shift, however, strained his relations with the Eastern Roman Empire, showcasing the complexities of his rule.

In the context of his reign, Louis was referred to as imperator Italiae in West Francia, while the Byzantines labeled him Basileus Phrangias, or 'Emperor of Francia.' His rule was marked by significant events and challenges, particularly in southern Italy, as chronicled by Andreas of Bergamo, who noted that after Louis's death, Italy faced a period of great tribulation.