The last king of France before the fall of the monarchy during the French Revolution was Louis XVI.
Louis XVI: Reign and Revolution
Louis XVI (pronounced [lwi sɛːz]), born Louis Auguste, was the final monarch to rule France under the Ancien Régime. His reign, which began in 1774, was marked by significant financial difficulties, social unrest, and political turmoil that ultimately culminated in the French Revolution. His inability to effectively address the growing discontent among the populace led to the dramatic overthrow of the monarchy.
Here's a brief overview of key facts about Louis XVI:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Louis Auguste |
| Born | August 23, 1754 |
| Died | January 21, 1793 |
| Reign Period | May 10, 1774 – September 4, 1792 (as King of France and Navarre) |
| Significance | The last king of France before the First French Republic was established. |
The End of an Era
The reign of Louis XVI officially ended on September 4, 1792, when the National Assembly abolished the monarchy, establishing the First French Republic. He was subsequently tried for treason and executed by guillotine on January 21, 1793, in Paris. His death symbolized the definitive end of absolute monarchy in France and paved the way for radical political and social changes.
For more information, you can explore the history of Louis XVI.
