Henry III of France was born on September 19, 1551, and became king in 1574. He was the last monarch of the Valois dynasty and ruled during a tumultuous period marked by the French Wars of Religion. His reign was characterized by political instability and conflict between Catholics and Huguenots. Henry III was known for his attempts to unify France and strengthen the monarchy. He faced challenges from powerful nobles and rival factions, including the House of Guise. His reign ended when he was assassinated in 1589, leading to the rise of Henry IV of France and the Bourbon dynasty.