In 481, the King of the Franks was Clovis I, also known as Chlodovech or Louis I. He was the first king of the Merovingian dynasty and is considered to be the founder of the Frankish state. Clovis I is known for his military campaigns, which expanded Frankish territory and consolidated his power over a number of Germanic tribes. He also played an important role in the spread of Christianity throughout the region, converting to the faith and encouraging his subjects to do the same.