Louis VI

Louis VI, also known as the Fat or the Fighter, was the ruler of the Franks from 1108 until his death in 1137. His reign is noted for efforts to centralize royal power, a process initiated by him as the first member of the Capetian dynasty to make such a lasting impact. His nearly three-decade rule was marked by continuous conflicts with the robber barons around Paris and disputes with the English kings over Normandy. Despite these challenges, he succeeded in strengthening the authority of the French crown.

Louis VI’s physical stature earned him the nickname ‘le Gros’, and as he aged, his weight made it difficult for him to lead in military campaigns. His life is chronicled in the Vita Ludovici Grossi Regis by his advisor Suger, abbot of Saint Denis. His early years saw him repel attacks from the English king William Rufus, and his reign witnessed significant political and military struggles, including the reinforcement of trade regulation along the Seine and multiple campaigns against rebellious nobles.