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Louis XI of France

Type Figure Region France Time 1423–1483 Also known as Louis XI (France)、the Spider King、Louis the Prudent

Louis XI (1423–1483), King of France of the Valois dynasty (r. 1461–1483), nicknamed "the Spider King" (l'universelle araigne), famed for diplomatic …

Timeline

  1. 1456–1460Ghent · Burgundian NetherlandsWith his political conflict with Charles VII intensifying, Louis fled in 1456 to Philip the Good, Duke of Burgundy, residing mainly in Ghent and Bruges. Philip treated him courteously, providing refuge and a pension. During this period Louis observed Burgundian court operations closely, met Charles the Bold and other magnates, and accumulated political experience and connections. Charles VII repeatedly demanded his return, all refused.
  2. 1457–1460Bruges · Burgundian NetherlandsDuring his time at the Burgundian court Louis met many foreign envoys and merchants, honing his interest-based diplomatic skills. He built a personal relationship with Charles the Bold (then Count of Charolais) while secretly maintaining contacts with French nobles and cities. These years were crucial to his later image as the "Spider King."
  3. 1461Reims · FranceAfter Charles VII died in July 1461, Louis set out from Ghent and returned to France accompanied by Philip the Good. On 15 August that year he was crowned King of France as Louis XI at Reims Cathedral, beginning a reign centered on diplomatic intrigue.

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