Charles V

Charles V was born to Philip the Handsome and Joanna of Castile in Ghent, Flanders, within the Burgundian Netherlands.

At the age of six, Charles V inherited the Duchy of Burgundy after the death of his father, Philip the Handsome.

Charles V inherited the crowns of Castile and Aragon, becoming King of Spain, following the death of his grandfather, Ferdinand II.

Charles V was elected Holy Roman Emperor, solidifying his position as one of the most powerful rulers in Europe.

Charles V was crowned Holy Roman Emperor by Pope Leo X in Bologna, Italy, solidifying his rule over the vast Habsburg territories.

Charles V presided over the Diet of Worms, where Martin Luther was excommunicated, marking a significant step in the Protestant Reformation.

Charles V's troops, under the command of the Duke of Bourbon, sacked Rome, a significant event in the Italian Wars.

Charles V married Isabella of Portugal, strengthening the alliance between the Habsburgs and the Portuguese crown.

Charles V led a successful campaign to conquer Tunis, defeating the Ottoman-supported corsair Hayreddin Barbarossa.

Charles V's attempt to capture Algiers from the Ottomans failed due to adverse weather conditions and strong resistance.

Charles V defeated the Schmalkaldic League at the Battle of Mühlberg, a significant victory in the struggle against Protestant princes.

Charles V signed the Peace of Augsburg, which allowed for the coexistence of Catholic and Lutheran states within the Holy Roman Empire.

Charles V abdicated the throne of Spain in favor of his son, Philip II, and began his retirement from active rule.

Charles V abdicated the title of Holy Roman Emperor, passing it to his brother, Ferdinand I, and retired to a monastery.

Charles V died at the Monastery of Yuste in Extremadura, Spain, after a life dedicated to ruling one of the largest empires in history.