Charlemagne
Occupation: Military leader, emperor
Best known as: First Holy Roman Emperor
Nationality: Frankish
Religion: Christian
Born: 747
Died: January 18, 814
Short biography:
Charlemagne was one of the greatest rulers in history. A devout Christian, a brilliant military strategist, and a capable administrator, he has been called the founder of modern Europe. Charlemagne became king of the Franks after the deaths of his father and brother and went on to create the Holy Roman Empire, the first large, organized political entity in Europe since the collapse of the Roman Empire. His conquests included Italy, Saxony, and Bavaria; he also fought fiercely against the Saracens, who had invaded nearby Spain. Charlemagne was crowned emperor on Christmas, 1800.
Wife: Desiderata
Parents: Pepin the Short and Bertrada of Laon
