Louis the Pious

Full Name: Louis the Pious, also known as the Fair and the Debonaire
Profession: Holy Roman Emperor

Nationality: Frank

Biography: Louis the Pious was the King of the Franks and Lombards and the Emperor of the Carolingian Empire during the early 9th century. He was the only surviving adult son of Charlemagne, the first Holy Roman Emperor, and succeeded his father in 814. Known for his deep religious devotion, Louis the Pious's reign was marked by efforts to strengthen the church and consolidate imperial rule.

Louis's reign began with a series of reforms aimed at establishing a Christian empire. He implemented changes in the administration of the empire, expelling what termed dissolute elements. This met with resistance from the nobility, leading to periods of political instability.

Despite these challenges, Louis the Pious made significant contributions to the Carolingian Renaissance, a period of cultural and intellectual revival within the empire. He supported the establishment of monastic schools, which were crucial in the preservation and transmission of classical knowledge, and was a patron of scholars like Einhard and Theodulf of Orleans.

One of the defining aspects of Louis the Pious's reign was his division of the empire among his sons, a decision that led to conflict and eventually to the breakup of the Carolingian Empire. His Ordinatio Imperii, an imperial decree issued in 817, intended to ensure a smooth succession, but instead resulted in a series of civil wars that weakened the empire.

Born: April 16, 778
Birthplace: Cassinogilum
Star Sign: Aries

Died: June 20, 840 (aged 62)