Hugues Capet was a French nobleman who became the first King of the Capetian dynasty in 987 AD. He was born around 941 and was the Duke of France before his election as king. His reign marked the beginning of a new era in French history, as he established a more centralized monarchy and strengthened royal authority. Hugues Capet's election was significant because it ended the rule of the Carolingian dynasty, which had been in power since the time of Charlemagne. His descendants would go on to rule France for over 800 years, making the Capetian dynasty one of the longest-lasting royal families in European history.