Louis the Stammerer ascended to the throne of West Francia during a period marked by political fragmentation and external threats. Born to Charles the Bald and Leroy of Aquitaine, Louis was thrust into a precarious position upon becoming king. The coronation by Pope John VIII was crucial, as it not only reaffirmed Louis' legitimacy but also sought to stabilize his reign through the papal authority. During the ceremony, held at the Basilica of St. Denis, Pope John VIII blessed Louis, an act that intertwined the church's influence with the monarchy, which was imperative in a time when secular power often relied heavily on divine sanction.

The backdrop of Louis' reign was characterized by a fractured kingdom and increasing Viking incursions, challenging his ability to maintain control. Despite being known as 'the Stammerer', Louis' leadership had to focus on unifying the warring factions within his territory and repelling external threats. His involvement in the Church's matters further established his role and highlighted the necessity of cooperation between the monarchy and the papacy. The cooperation was critical for ensuring peace and order in West Francia, as local lords wielded significant power and influence.

Louis' rule was short-lived, lasting just a few years until his untimely death in 879. Nevertheless, his crowning was a notable event in the continuation of the Carolingian legacy, influencing the future structure of governance in West Francia. The event is often seen as a pivotal moment that laid the groundwork for the institution of monarchy in medieval France, blending religious authority with royal power to create a more stable and recognized leadership.