Charles I of Anjou was a French nobleman born in 1226, known for his role as the King of Sicily from 1266 until his death in 1285. He was the youngest son of Louis VIII of France and Blanche of Castile. Charles played a significant part in the expansion of the Angevin Empire and sought to strengthen his power in southern Italy. In addition to his rule in Sicily, Charles I was a key figure in the Crusades, particularly the Seventh Crusade. He was also involved in various conflicts with the Aragonese and sought to establish his family's influence over the Mediterranean region. His reign marked a period of political and military ambition in the 13th century.