King Louis VII of France

Louis VII, known as the Younger, was born in 1120 as the second son of Louis VI of France and Adelaide of Maurienne. Initially prepared for a religious career, his path changed after the death of his older brother, Philip, in 1131, making him the heir apparent. He was crowned as co-ruler with his father in 1131 and became the sole king in 1137 after his father's death.

In 1137, Louis VII married Eleanor of Aquitaine, which temporarily expanded Capetian lands to the Pyrenees. However, their marriage was troubled, particularly during the Second Crusade, where disagreements arose during their stay in the Holy Land. The marriage was annulled in 1152, and Eleanor subsequently married Henry, Duke of Normandy, which led to the formation of the Angevin Empire.

Louis VII's reign included events such as the founding of the University of Paris and the promotion of Gothic architecture, including the construction of Notre-Dame de Paris. He was involved in conflicts with Theobald II of Champagne and faced disputes with the papacy over the archbishopric of Bourges. His reign also saw the failed siege of Damascus during the Second Crusade.

Louis VII married Constance of Castile in 1154, but their union produced only daughters, Margaret and Alys. His third marriage to Adela of Champagne in 1160 finally resulted in a male heir, Philip Augustus, born in 1165. This marriage was part of Louis's efforts to secure his dynasty's future.

Throughout his reign, Louis VII engaged in diplomatic and military efforts to counter the power of the Angevin Empire. He supported the rebellious sons of Henry II of England in their conflicts against their father. Louis struggled to oppose the Angevin hegemony due to limited resources.

Louis VII supported Thomas Becket, Archbishop of Canterbury, in his disputes with Henry II. He also maintained alliances with the papacy, supporting Pope Alexander III during a schism. His son, Philip, was crowned in 1179, continuing the Capetian tradition.

Louis VII died on 18 September 1180 in Paris at the age of 59 or 60 and was initially buried at Barbeau Abbey. He was succeeded by his son, Philip II.