Louis I of Bavaria

Louis I of Bavaria, in German, Ludwig I (1786-1868), King of Bavaria (1825-1848), son and successor of Maximilian I, born in Strasbourg. In the early part of his reign he upheld a moderate constitutional policy, but he later became reactionary in his opposition to the revolutionary spirit rampant in Europe. The last decade of his rule was dominated by Roman Catholic politicians, who were, however, unable to compel him to banish his mistress, the former Irish dancing-girl Lola Montez. During the Revolution of 1848 that spread from France to other parts of Europe, he abdicated in favour of his son Maximilian II, and subsequently spent most of his time in France.