Charlemagne, also known as Charles the Great or Carolus Magnus, was a medieval emperor who ruled much of Western Europe from 768 to 814. He was the King of the Franks from 768, King of the Lombards from 774, and the first Emperor of the Romans (later called the Holy Roman Empire) from 800 until his death in 814. Charlemagne is credited with uniting most of Western and Central Europe under his rule, which had a lasting impact on the continent’s political landscape. He led numerous military campaigns to expand his empire, including conquests in Italy, Germany, and Spain. Charlemagne’s reign had a profound influence on European history, and he is often referred to as the “Father of Europe” for his role in shaping the continent. His empire laid the foundation for the later Holy Roman Empire, and his efforts to spread Christianity and promote education had long-lasting effects. Charles Martel
Charles Martel, also known as “The Hammer”, was a Frankish political and military leader who ruled from 718 to 741. He was the Mayor of the Palace of Austrasia and later the entire Frankish realm. Charles Martel was born around 688 to Pepin of Herstal, the Mayor of the Palace, and a noblewoman named Alpaida. Despite being considered illegal, Charles asserted his claims to power and succeeded his father as the de facto ruler of the Franks. Charles is best known for his victory at the Battle of Tours (also known as the Battle of Poitiers), where he defeated a large Muslim army, halting the Umayyad advance into Western Europe. He conducted numerous military campaigns to re-establish the Franks as the dominant power in Gaul and reunified the Frankish realm.
Lesson Learning 