The kings on a deck of playing cards are a representation of which kings from history?

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There are theories about who the court cards represent. For example, the Queen of Hearts is believed by some to be a representation of Elizabeth of York – the Queen consort of King Henry VII of England. The United States Playing Card Company suggests that in the past, the King of Hearts was Charlemagne, the King of Diamonds was Julius Caesar, the King of Clubs was Alexander the Great, and the King of Spades was the Biblical King David. However the Kings, Queens and Jacks of standard Anglo-American cards today do not represent anyone.

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Court cards designed in the 16th century in the manufacturing centre of Rouen became the standard design in England, while a Parisian design became standard in France. Both the Parisian and Rouennais court cards were named after historical and mythological heroes and heroines. The Parisian names have become more common in modern use, even with cards of Rouennais design.

Paris court cards traditional names

King of Spades: David

King of Hearts: Charlemagne

King of Diamonds: Julius Caesar

King of Clubs: Alexander the Great

David

Ceasr

Charlamange

Alexander