Louis XI of France
Louis XI, called 'the Universal Spider,' was a master of intrigue who preferred bribery and cunning to open warfare, systematically dismantling the great feudal principalities of France. He outmanoeuvred Charles the Bold of Burgundy, whose death in 1477 allowed Louis to incorporate much of Burgundy into the royal domain. His reign is considered the pivotal moment when France transitioned from feudal monarchy to a centralised Renaissance state.
- Lived: 1423 CE – 1483 CE
- Nationality: french
- Roles: king, head_of_state
