Emperor Ludwig IV, also known as Louis IV of Bavaria, was the Holy Roman Emperor from 1314 until his death in 1347. He was a member of the House of Wittelsbach and became emperor after a contested election, which led to a power struggle with his rival, Frederick the Beautiful. Ludwig's reign was marked by efforts to strengthen the authority of the emperor and to stabilize the empire. Ludwig IV is notable for his support of the University of Munich and his involvement in the Hundred Years' War. He also sought to expand his influence in Italy, where he was crowned king of Italy in 1327. His reign faced challenges, including conflicts with the papacy and internal disputes among the German princes.