Charlemagne was a revered king and although very young, he was a great military leader and very influential throughout his life.
Charlemagne was born in Belgium. He became co-ruler at the age of twenty six. This was quite young knowing that if the king died he would immediately become emperor. About ten years later the king died leaving Charlemagne to be the sole ruler. Charlemagne was crowned with an iron crown and his coronation went well. Later he married an Italian princess strengthening his connection to Italy, ruling both Italy and France. Sadly, later he divorced and married a French woman which weakened relations with Italy. Keep in mind that he had children with both women creating a very unhappy family. Relations were not good between Charlemagne and Italy, so a war broke out that led to a two year siege by Italy. Finally, Charlemagne made negotiations with Italy and peace was restored. Through the years Charlemagne had complaints from the Muslims, therefore he wanted to push them back into their settlement. The Muslims were very persistent. They had a successful attack on Charlemagne’s rear guard that led to the Song of Roland. Finally, he won the war with the Muslims one year before his death.
I think Charlemagne was a brave ruler even though he had family issues. He persevered and was known as one of the best rulers in Europe.
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