Henry IV (; 11 November 1050 – 7 August 1106) ascended to
King of the Germans in 1056. From 1084 until his forced
abdication in 1105, he was also referred to as the King of the Romans and
Holy Roman Emperor. He was the third emperor of the
Salian dynasty and one of the most powerful and important figures of the 11th century. His reign was marked by the
Investiture Controversy with the
Papacy. Several civil wars over his throne took place in both Italy and Germany. He died of illness, soon after defeating his son's army near Visé, in
Lorraine, France.