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Period: Jan 1, 700 to
Carolingian Renaissance
This was a revival of art and architecture, including the reign of Charlemagne. This was the predecessor to the Holy Roman Empire. -
Oct 10, 732
Battle of Tours
Charles "The Hammer" Martel's army was the last line of defense for the Frankish Empire. To stop the Muslims from expanding their empire, Martel camped his troops on a wooded hill and forced the Muslim Moors to fight uphill. This was the first time in history an infantry withstood a mounted attack. The Moors then returned to Spain and the Empire was saved. -
Feb 22, 754
Pepin the Short is King of the Franks
Having been anointed king by St. Boniface as King of the Franks back in 751, Pepin the Short, the son of Charles Martel, was re-anointed by Pope Stephen II. He was anointed in return for military protection for the Papacy. Pepin the Short was also awarded the Papal States for his work. -
Dec 4, 771
Charlemagne is Sole Ruler
After Pepin the Short died in 768, his two sons took over: Charlemagne and Carloman. However, the tension between the two continued to grow. Then Carloman died suddenly and Charlemagne took over. Historians have long since debated whether Charlemagne had anything to do with his brother's death. -
Bloody Verdict of Verdun
Charlemagne made all his conquests swear an oath of loyalty to Christianity. However, in 782, he encountered a group of Saxon rebels who refused to do this. He then slaughtered all 4500 of the rebels in a single day. -
Charlemagne is Emperor
On Christmas Day, 800, Charlemagne approached the altar to pray at Christmas Mass. He was then crowned Emperor by Pope Leo III, who he had protected from corruption. He then introduced Carolingian Miniscule and ended the Dark Ages.
