Charlemagne: Father of Europe

Meet Charles the Great, the Carolingian king who would become Charlemagne. Why was Charlemagne’s rule so different than the kings who came before him? How did the political and religious climate of Western Europe shape his kingship and his imperial ambitions? Why is there so much controversy about his reputation? Start your search for answers here.

To get the full picture of Charlemagne as both man and king, Professor Daileader takes you back to the formative years of Charlemagne’s life before he ascended to the imperial throne. As you look back on this period, you will also discover the way historians are constantly discovering and reevaluating information to create a clearer picture of this time in European history.

Charlemagne’s ascension to emperor at the age of 52 ushered in a new era in Europe. You will see how Charlemagne’s rule altered the European landscape and how this transformation shaped his reputation for generations to come. You will also see how hindsight can shape history in interesting—and not always terribly accurate—ways.

Although he was “Father of Europe,” Charlemagne was also the father of at least 19 children. Charlemagne’s family life powerfully affected all aspects of his life, and it influenced how future generations regarded him, both as a leader and as a person. As you will see, the king’s relations with his wives and children had important and long-lasting political repercussions.

As king and then as emperor, Charlemagne united disparate kingdoms in Europe through warfare, and many of his early victories helped to shape his image well into the future. Why was Charlemagne so often at war? What kinds of tactics and strategies did he use to win? And how did medieval social structures affect his choices?

Success in dynastic politics and war brought Charlemagne power. But what did Charlemagne do with this power? How did Charlemagne govern the territories under his control? First, consider the place of Charlemagne’s government in the broader sweep of European history. Then, see how Charlemagne governed in the pursuit of lofty goals, focused especially on secular justice and spiritual salvation.