Charles the Bald was a king of the Franks and a member of the Carolingian dynasty, born in 823. He was the grandson of Charlemagne and ruled over the western part of the Frankish Empire. Charles became king of West Francia in 843 after the Treaty of Verdun, which divided the empire among Charlemagne's grandsons. Charles was known for his efforts to strengthen his kingdom and promote learning and culture. He established several monasteries and supported the arts, contributing to the Carolingian Renaissance. His reign faced challenges, including conflicts with his brothers and Viking invasions, which affected his rule.