Charles V* (1500-1558)

Tired by his long and tumultuous reign, Charles abdicated in 1555 and 1556, dividing his realm between his son Philip and his brother Ferdinand. Charles kept the title of Holy Roman emperor until his death but did not use its power. He retired to a small home adjoining St. Jerome's monastery at Yuste, where he died on Sept. 21, 1558. (Encyclopaedia Britannica Article)