Charlemagne

Charlemagne was born to Pepin the Short and Bertrada of Laon in Liège, Austrasia. His birth marked the beginning of a lineage that would profoundly shape European history.

Charlemagne's father, Pepin the Short, deposes the Merovingian king and is crowned King of the Franks. This event significantly influences Charlemagne's future role and ambitions.

Upon Pepin's death, Charlemagne and his brother Carloman I inherit the Frankish kingdom and rule jointly. Their co-rule is marked by tension and territorial disputes.

Carloman I dies, and Charlemagne becomes the sole ruler of the Frankish kingdom. This consolidates his power and sets the stage for his expansionist policies.

Charlemagne defeats the Lombards and annexes their kingdom, expanding his territory into Italy. This victory enhances his reputation as a formidable military leader.

Charlemagne's rear guard is ambushed by Basques during a retreat from Spain. This event is immortalized in the epic poem 'The Song of Roland.'

Charlemagne is recognized as 'Emperor of the Romans' by the Pope, solidifying his authority and the integration of the Frankish kingdom with the Roman legacy.

Charlemagne initiates significant reforms in the Frankish Church, promoting education, standardizing liturgy, and strengthening the relationship between the Church and state.

On Christmas Day, Charlemagne is crowned Emperor of the Romans by Pope Leo III in Rome, marking the formal establishment of the Carolingian Empire and his status as a Christian ruler.

Charlemagne designates his son, Louis the Pious, as his successor and has him crowned co-emperor. This ensures the continuity of the Carolingian dynasty.

Charlemagne dies in Aachen, the capital of his empire, after a long and impactful reign. His legacy as a unifier and reformer of Europe endures for centuries.