Louis VIII of France

Reign: 1223 – 1226
Life: 1187–1226

On 2 June 1216, Louis was proclaimed "King of England" by rebellious barons in London, though never crowned. With the assistance of allies in England and Scotland he gained control of approximately one third of the English kingdom and part of Southern Wales. He was eventually defeated by English loyalists and those barons who swapped sides following the death of King John. After the Treaty of Lambeth, he was paid 10,000 marks, pledged never to invade England again, and was absolved of his excommunication.

During Louis VIII of France's reign, James I of Aragon ruled Spain, Sancho II of Portugal ruled Portugal, and Erik Eriksson ruled Sweden.

Want to learn more? Further reading

The Cambridge Illustrated History of France by Colin Jones

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The most notable rulers who held power elsewhere at the same time, from European courts to Ottoman, Mughal, and Chinese thrones.

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