Charles III, Duke of Parma, was born on December 14, 1823, and was a member of the House of Bourbon. He became the Duke of Parma in 1849 after the abdication of his father, Charles II, Duke of Parma. His reign was marked by political instability and the influence of the Italian unification movement. During his rule, Charles III faced challenges from various factions, including liberals and nationalists. He eventually fled to France in 1854 due to increasing pressure and unrest. Charles III's reign ended in 1859, and he died on November 16, 1854, in Florence.