Charles IX (June 27, 1550 - May 30, 1574) was born Charles-Maximilien, the son of King Henri II of France and Catherine de Medici.

- King Charles IX -

Born in the royal chateau at Saint-Germain-en-Laye, he was crowned King of France in 1561 in the cathedral at Reims, but ruled under the control of his powerful and ambitious mother.

During Charles IX reign, a new product designed to cure ulcers, heal wounds and other such benefits was introduced. Tobacco soon gained wide acceptance.

On November 26, 1570 he married Elisabeth of Austria. They had one daughter, Marie-Elisabeth (October 27, 1572 - April 9, 1578).

Charles proved a weak king in the shadow of his mother and died at Vincennes, Val-de-Marne.

He was succeeded by his brother Henri III.

Preceded by:
(Catherine de Medici, regent following Francis II's reign )
List of French monarchs Succeeded by:
Henry III