Louis XVIII
#52,090 Most Popular
About
Known as the Desired, he served as King of France from 1814 to 1824. In total he spent 23 years in exile, including during the French Revolution, the First French Empire and a brief period during his reign due to the Hundred Days in 1815. During the Napoleonic era he lived in exile in Prussia, England, and Russia. His reign is notable for the rise of the Doctrinaires, the Quintuple Alliance and the military intervention in Spain.
Before Fame
He originally held the title of Count of Provence. After his brother's execution, he proclaimed himself King.
Trivia
He was disgusted by his wife's poor hygiene habits and the marriage remained unconsummated for years. He and his wife did not get along with his brother and his brother's wife Marie Antoinette.
Family Life
He was the grandson of the reigning king, King Louis XV. His two eldest brothers passed away, leaving him second in line for the throne. His brother was King Louis XVI, the last King of France before the fall of the monarchy. In 1771 he married Princess Maria Giuseppina of Savoy. They conceived two children but both ended in miscarriages. He was succeeded by his youngest brother, the Count of Artois, as Charles X.
Associated With
He underestimated the attack of Napoleon Bonaparte during the Hundred Days in 1815, leading to a second victory over the French Empire.
