Charles VIII almost always let reckless ambition cloud his judgment. He sought too often to expand France's power, although he lacked both the financial and military resources to do so. As a result of Charles VIII's foolish conquests, France lost most of its army and was in heavy debt by the time of Charles' death. Overall, Charles VIII contributed little to France. Rather than continue the efforts of his father and grandfather in rebuilding France following a long and destructive struggle, Charles foolishly set out on several misadventures that cost France dearly. He left behind no legacy other than a stack full of new debts and a ruined army.
