King Phillip II of France

Philip II 'Augustus' was born on 21 August 1165 in Gonesse, France, as the only son of King Louis VII and Adela of Champagne. He was nicknamed 'Dieudonné' or 'God-given' due to his late birth in his father's life. Philip was crowned and anointed as king at Reims on 1 November 1179, becoming co-king with his father, Louis VII.

Philip ascended to the throne of France on 18 September 1180, following the death of his father. He married Isabella of Hainault in 1180, who brought the County of Artois as her dowry. His reign marked the transition from being styled as 'King of the Franks' to 'King of France' in 1190.

During the Third Crusade, Philip traveled to the Holy Land in 1190, but returned to France in 1191 due to illness and political concerns. His return was also motivated by the need to address the succession issue in Flanders. Philip's conflicts with King Richard I of England continued upon Richard's return from the crusade.

Philip faced marital issues after the death of Isabella in 1190. He married Ingeborg of Denmark in 1193, but sought an annulment shortly after. Despite papal intervention, Philip married Agnes of Merania in 1196, leading to an interdict on France until 1200.

Philip's reign saw territorial expansion, notably after defeating the Angevin Empire at the Battle of Bouvines in 1214. This victory solidified his authority and weakened King John of England, leading to the signing of the Magna Carta. Philip also supported the Albigensian Crusade, allowing his vassals to participate.

Philip II 'Augustus' contributed to the development of Paris, paving main roads, building Les Halles market, and constructing the Louvre fortress. He granted a charter to the University of Paris in 1200, fostering education. His reign included administrative reforms and financial stability.

Philip II 'Augustus' died on 14 July 1223 at the age of 57 in Mantes-la-Jolie, France, and was buried in the Basilica of St Denis. He was succeeded by his son, Louis VIII.