Louis XI of France was a king who ruled from 1461 to 1483. Known as the "Universal Spider," he was a master of political manipulation and diplomacy. His reign marked the strengthening of the French monarchy and the centralization of power, moving away from feudalism. Louis XI was born in 1423 and was the son of Charles VII. He played a significant role in the Hundred Years' War and worked to consolidate his kingdom by defeating rival nobles. His efforts laid the groundwork for the future unification of France under the Valois dynasty.