Louis XIII was the King of France from 1610 until his death in 1643. He ascended to the throne at a young age after the assassination of his father, Henry IV. His reign was marked by the strengthening of royal power and the centralization of the French state, often guided by his chief minister, Cardinal Richelieu. Louis XIII is also known for his patronage of the arts and the establishment of the French Academy. His reign saw significant events, including the Thirty Years' War, where France became involved in European conflicts. He is often remembered for his contributions to the development of modern France.