Charles III of France, also known as Charles the Bald, was a king of the Franks and later the Holy Roman Emperor during the 9th century. He was born in 823 and became king in 843 after the Treaty of Verdun, which divided the Carolingian Empire among his brothers. Charles ruled over West Francia and was known for his efforts to strengthen his kingdom and promote learning. Charles III faced numerous challenges, including Viking invasions and internal conflicts. He was a patron of the arts and education, contributing to the Carolingian Renaissance. He died in 877, leaving a legacy of cultural and political influence in medieval Europe.