Louis I of Spain facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Louis I |
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Portrait by Jean Ranc, c. 1723
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| King of Spain (more...) | |||||
| Reign | 15 January 1724 – 31 August 1724 | ||||
| Predecessor | Philip V | ||||
| Successor | Philip V | ||||
| Chief Ministers |
See list
The Marquess of the Peace
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| Born | 25 August 1707 Buen Retiro, Madrid, Castile |
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| Died | 31 August 1724 (aged 17) Buen Retiro, Madrid, Spain |
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| Burial | El Escorial | ||||
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| House | Bourbon-Anjou | ||||
| Father | Philip V of Spain | ||||
| Mother | Maria Luisa Gabriella of Savoy | ||||
| Religion | Roman Catholicism | ||||
| Signature |  |
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Louis I (born Luis Felipe Fernando José on August 25, 1707) was the King of Spain for a very short time in 1724. He became king on January 15, 1724, but sadly passed away in August of the same year. His reign lasted just over seven months, making it one of the shortest in history.
Contents
Early Life and Royal Title
Louis was born on August 25, 1707, in Madrid, Spain, at the Buen Retiro Palace. He was the oldest son of King Philip V of Spain and Queen Maria Luisa Gabriella of Savoy. He was named after his famous great-grandfather, Louis XIV of France.
When Louis was born, he was the next in line to the throne. However, he didn't receive the special title of "Prince of Asturias" until April 1709. This title is traditionally given to the person who will inherit the Spanish throne.
Family Changes
In 1714, when Louis was seven years old, his mother passed away. This left him and his younger brothers, Ferdinand and Felipe Pedro. Later that year, on December 24, 1714, his father, King Philip V, married again. His new wife was Elisabeth Farnese, who was a young princess from Italy.
Marriage to Louise Élisabeth
As the future king of the large Spanish Empire, it was important for Louis to marry soon. On January 20, 1722, he met and married Louise Élisabeth d'Orléans in Lerma, Spain. Louise Élisabeth was the daughter of Philippe, Duke of Orléans, who was the Regent of France at the time. This marriage was a very important event for both royal families.
Becoming King of Spain
Louis became King of Spain on January 15, 1724. His father, King Philip V, decided to step down from the throne and let Louis rule. King Philip sent his son a letter, calling him a "great king." Louis humbly replied, thanking his father, and signed his letter as "Prince of Asturias."
Challenges as King
Louis's time as king was very short, lasting just over seven months. During his reign, he faced some challenges, especially with his marriage. His father, Philip V, even though he had given up the throne, still kept a close eye on Louis from his palace. To try and have more control, Louis surrounded himself with new officials who had not worked for his father. He also planned to focus more on Spain's colonies in America instead of the territories Spain had lost in Italy.
Death and Legacy
Sadly, Louis I died from smallpox on August 31, 1724. He was only 17 years old. After his death, his father, Philip V, returned to the throne. Philip V ruled for another 22 years until his own death in 1746. Louis was buried in the royal tomb at the El Escorial complex in Spain.
Appearance and Personality
Louis was described as tall and thin, with blonde hair. People often noticed his resemblance to his grandfather, Victor Amadeus II of Sardinia. He was also said to have weak arms, which made him seem delicate.
Not much is known about Louis's personality, but some people who knew him described him as very generous and kind. They said he made others feel comfortable around him. Some also believed he had inherited his father's intelligence and charm, and his mother's good morals.
See also
In Spanish: Luis I de España para niños
