Events and Leaders in the Middle Age which made Kings and Popes Powerful

Charlemagne Comes to Power

768

Charlemagne inherited the throne after his father passed away, allowing him to make many advancements with his leadership. He became one of the most important kings in Medieval history.

Charlemagne Invades the Lombard's

773

Charlemagne conquered many territories. Once he conquered and declared himself king of the Lombards, the germanic tribe inhabiting parts of Italy, he had converted many of their people to Christianity.

Charlemagne Crowned Holy Roman Emperor

800

Pope Leo III crowned Charlemagne Holy Roman emperor due to his bold and noble leadership. This was especially important since no person had been crowned Roman emperor since 476.

The Vikings Convert to Christianity

911

The Viking people, also known as raiders, were known to commonly pillage and raid cities, monasteries, and many other places which were all Christian. Once the Vikings started to settle in areas like England, Scotland, France, and other places in Europe, they converted to Christianity. There was more spread of Christianity and Christian rulers because of the many people converting to Christianity.

Otto I is Crowned Holy Roman Emperor

962

After the death of Charlemagne, Otto I took his place as Holy Roman emperor. After the title of Holy Roman emperor was brought back, it was given to Christian leaders by the pope.

Christianity Benefits Education

1000

In the Medieval ages, Christianity became a center for learning and schools like it had been previously, but almost everyone became educated at this time. Priests were teachers in these school, most often teaching Latin in order for more people to understand the Bible.

The Crusades

1095

The crusades were led by the religious leaders in Europe in order to gain control over the holy land because it was such a major part of Christianity. Christianity being a powerful influence on the people made the leaders fo these people very religious as well.

The 100 Years' War

1337

Joan of Arc was a popular figure during the 100 years' war because she was leading a fight in the name of God. She was given a message by God to help in the war which made people follow her.

The Black Death

1348

During the time of the plague, the people believed that God was the only person who was able to save them from more death from the sickness. Religious leaders, priests, and the pope were people whom the common people looked up to in order to get their prayers and messages to God.

Eugene IV Returns Papacy to Rome

1431

Eugene IV, a powerful pope, had reconfirmed the power of the papacy in the year 1431 which allowed for more papal power in the future. He did this to make it easier for the following popes to be granted more power.