Charlemagne Charles the Great Leader of the Franks

Charlemagne (Charles the Great) Leader of the Franks

A Good Leader? • What makes somebody a good leader/ruler? • What qualities would he or she possess? • Think of at least one person who you would consider a good leader and explain why.

Charlemagne 742 – 814: His Family Background • He was a tall powerful fearless and contradictory character. • He had a fantastic ability to organize. • His mother taught him to read and a devotion to the church.

Who was he? • Read page 25 and complete the following questions: • • Who was he? What did other people think of him? Why was he significant to the Early Middle Ages? Major accomplishments

What did he do/accomplish? • 771 – “By the sword and the Cross” he became the master of Western Europe. He became the sole ruler on the death of his brother. – The Franks were falling back into barbarian ways • 772 – He launched a 30 year campaign with more than 50 military expeditions to strengthen his realm and bring order to Europe. • 800 – the undisputed ruler of Western Europe. His realm covered : France, Switzerland, Belgium, The Netherlands, Germany, Italy, Austria and The Spanish March (border) • Christmas Day 800 - Crowned Emperor by Pope Leo III. • 814 – Died in his beloved city of Aachen. • People had forgotten about art and learning. He restored the roots of learning. Preserved political rights and revived culture

Charlemagne’s Renaissance • What does “renaissance” mean? – A re-birth – Changes that allow society to live a new and better life • Read page 26 – Create a list of his accomplishments which improved society

Primary Source Account • Read Einhard’s biography of Charlemagne on pg. 26 • Questions: • • • How does Einhard describe Charlemagne? How is this account different from other peoples? Is Einhard more positive or negative? Why?

Aachen (Aquisgranum) • Charlemagne’s favourite residence. Images and impressions of him and his reign are to be found all over the city.

Charlemagne’s Signature

Charlemagne Dies • Charlemagne is dead and you are being asked to give the eulogy at his funeral • Write a short 100 word eulogy for Charlemagne – It may be positive or negative – It must contain facts and information about his life