PHILIPPE AUGUSTE

Philip II Augustus was King of France from 1180 to 1223. He is one of the greatest Capetian monarchs and played a major role in strengthening royal power. He considerably expanded the royal domain by reclaiming numerous territories from the kings of England, notably after his decisive victory at the Battle of Bouvines in 1214 against a coalition led by John Lackland. He modernized the kingdom's administration, strengthened the king's authority against the powerful lords, and fortified Paris (building the first city walls and the medieval Louvre). His reign marked a crucial stage in the development of the French monarchy's power during the Middle Ages.