Louis XI

High school (ages 12+)
History & Culture

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Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/louis-xi

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. When was Louis XI born?July 3, 1423
2. When did Louis XI die?August 30, 1483 (age 60)
3. Where was Louis XI born?Bourges, France
4. What is the nickname?The 'Universal Spider'
5. Who was Louis XI and why was he called the Spider King?Louis XI was a French king born in 1423 who was very clever and careful. He was nicknamed the "Universal Spider" because he built many connections and tricks to bring people under his control.
6. How did Louis XI use chess to help him rule France?He loved playing chess and used it as a way to think ahead, plan moves, and wait for the right time, just like he did in politics.

Absolutism: A political system where a ruler holds total power, not restricted by laws, legislature, or customs.
Feudal System: A medieval social structure based on land ownership and loyalty, with lords granting land to vassals in exchange for military service.
Pragmatism: A practical approach to problems and affairs, focusing on what works rather than on theory or ideology.