Charles V

Charles V was a prominent 16th-century European ruler, reigning as Holy Roman Emperor and King of Spain. He was born in 1500 and came into power during a time of significant political and religious upheaval. His reign saw the rise of the Protestant Reformation and extensive territorial conflicts in Europe, as well as the expansion of Spanish influence in the Americas. Charles V struggled to maintain control over a vast empire that included Spain, the Netherlands, parts of Italy, and territories in the Americas, ultimately abdicating in 1556 and dividing his domains between his brother and son.