King Louis IV of France

Louis IV, known as d’Outremer or Transmarinus, meaning ‘from overseas’, ruled as King of West Francia from 936 until his death in 954. Born to King Charles the Simple and Eadgifu of Wessex, he was the Carolingian dynasty’s sole male heir after his father’s death in 929. Raised in the Anglo-Saxon court, he returned to West Francia at age 15 to assume the throne. His reign was characterized by attempts to assert independence from the powerful Hugh the Great and struggles to maintain control over his kingdom.

Louis IV’s efforts to strengthen his rule included building alliances and seeking protection from the Ottonian kingdom of East Francia. Despite being crowned in Laon, he faced numerous challenges, including being captured by Normans and dealing with internal rivalries. His reign, although turbulent, is documented by sources such as the Annals of Flodoard and Richerus’ Historiae, providing insights into the political landscape of 10th-century France.