Charles VIII facts for kids

Charles VIII is a name used by two important historical figures who ruled in different countries:

• Charles VIII of Sweden (1409–1470), who was also known as Charles II of Sweden and Charles I of Norway.
• Charles VIII of France (1470–1498), often called "the Affable."

This article will tell you more about these two kings.

Charles VIII of France

Charles VIII was the King of France from 1483 until he passed away in 1498. He was part of the Valois dynasty. He was known for his friendly nature, which earned him the nickname "the Affable."

Early Life and Becoming King

Charles was born in 1470 at the Château d'Amboise. He was the only son of King Louis XI and Charlotte of Savoy. When his father died in 1483, Charles was only 13 years old. Because he was so young, his older sister, Anne of France, and her husband, Peter II, Duke of Bourbon, ruled France for him as regents until he was old enough.

The Italian Wars

Charles VIII is most famous for starting the Italian Wars. In 1494, he decided to invade Italy. His main goal was to claim the Kingdom of Naples, which he believed belonged to him through his grandmother.

The Invasion of Italy

Charles led a large French army across the Alps into Italy. His army was very strong, and many Italian states were surprised by its power. He marched through Italy, taking control of cities like Florence and Rome without much trouble. He successfully reached Naples and was crowned king there in 1495.

Italian League and Retreat

However, other European powers and some Italian states became worried about France's growing power. They formed a group called the League of Venice (also known as the Holy League). This league included Spain, the Holy Roman Empire, Venice, and Milan. Charles VIII realized he was in danger of being trapped in Italy. He decided to retreat back to France. His army fought a difficult battle against the League at Fornovo in 1495, which allowed him to return home.

Legacy

Charles VIII's invasion of Italy didn't lead to lasting French control of Naples. However, it had a huge impact on Europe. It marked the beginning of a long series of conflicts known as the Italian Wars, which lasted for many years and involved many European countries. His actions also helped spread new ideas and art from the Italian Renaissance across Europe.

Charles VIII died suddenly in 1498 at the age of 27. He accidentally hit his head on a door lintel at the Château d'Amboise and passed away a few hours later. Since he had no surviving children, the French throne passed to his cousin, Louis XII.

Charles VIII of Sweden

Charles VIII was a very important figure in Swedish history. He was King of Sweden three times and also King of Norway once. His reign was marked by many conflicts and struggles for power.

Early Life and Rise to Power

Charles was born in 1409. His full name was Karl Knutsson Bonde. He came from a powerful noble family in Sweden. At this time, Sweden was part of the Kalmar Union, which also included Denmark and Norway. This union was often unstable, with Sweden frequently trying to gain more independence.

Periods of Rule

Charles VIII's time as king was not continuous. He ruled Sweden in three separate periods:

• First Reign (1448–1457): After the previous king of the Kalmar Union died, Charles was elected King of Sweden in 1448. He also became King of Norway in 1449. During this time, he tried to strengthen Sweden's independence from Denmark. However, he faced strong opposition from the Danish king and from some Swedish nobles. He was eventually forced to leave Sweden in 1457.

• Second Reign (1464–1465): After a period of exile, Charles was brought back to Sweden in 1464 by a group of nobles who were unhappy with the Danish rule. However, his second reign was very short. He quickly faced new conflicts with powerful church leaders and other nobles, and he was forced to leave the throne again in 1465.

• Third Reign (1467–1470): Charles returned to power for a third time in 1467. This time, he managed to hold onto the throne until his death in 1470. During this final period, he continued to work towards Swedish independence and tried to bring more stability to the country.

Legacy

Charles VIII was a strong and determined leader who fought hard for Sweden's independence from the Kalmar Union. Even though his reigns were often interrupted, he played a key role in the long struggle that eventually led to Sweden becoming a fully independent kingdom. He is remembered as a national hero in Sweden.

See also

In Spanish: Carlos VIII para niños

• King Charles (disambiguation)
• Charles