Hugh Capet

Hugh Capet was the first King of France of the eponymous Capetian dynasty from his election to succeed the Carolingian Louis V in 987 until his death. He was born into a noble family in the Île-de-France region and became the King of France in 987 following the death of the last Carolingian king, Louis V. He was crowned at Noyon and later at Paris. He faced opposition from some Frankish nobles who supported Charles, Duke of Lower Lorraine, a Carolingian claimant to the throne. Hugh managed to secure his position by forming alliances with the Church and some powerful vassals. He also benefited from the support of his brother-in-law, Otto III, Holy Roman Emperor. Hugh's reign was marked by his efforts to consolidate his authority over his realm and to expand his domains. He acquired the Duchy of Burgundy in 1016 and the County of Barcelona in 1018. He also fought against the Vikings who raided the coasts of Normandy and Aquitaine. He died in 996 and was succeeded by his son Robert II, who continued the Capetian dynasty that would rule France for nearly nine centuries. Hugh Capet is regarded as the founder of modern France and one of the most influential monarchs in French history.