Merovingian: Difference between revisions
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The term '''Merovingian''' refers to a [[dynasty|line]] of [[Frank]]ish [[king]]s who ruled central [[Europe]] in the [[6th century|6th]], [[7th century|7th]], and [[8th century|8th]] centuries. They occupy almost a transitional role from earlier [[Germanic]] tribal rule to the [[feudal]] system and [[Roman]]-influenced [[medieval]] [[law]]. |
The term '''Merovingian''' refers to a [[dynasty|line]] of [[Frank]]ish [[king]]s who ruled central [[Europe]] in the [[6th century|6th]], [[7th century|7th]], and [[8th century|8th]] centuries. They occupy almost a transitional role from earlier [[Germanic]] tribal rule to the [[feudal]] system and [[Roman]]-influenced [[medieval]] [[law]]. The dynasty derives its name from Merovech, a Frankish chief who helped beat back Attila the Hun on behalf of the [[Roman Empire]]. |
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The Merovingian kings declined in power, with gradually more control passing into the hands of the major domus, or mayor. By the end of the Merovingian reign kingship was merely titular, and with the aid of the [[pope]] the major domus was to become recognised as king, and kingship passed to the [[Carolingian]]s. |
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The dynastic successors to the Merovingians were the [[Carolingian]]s. |
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Famous Merovingian kings include: |
Famous Merovingian kings include: |
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* ''Clovis'' - founder of the Merovingian dynasty |
* ''Clovis'' - founder of the Merovingian dynasty |
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* ''Charles Martel'' - [[legend]]ary leader who is credited with halting [[Muslim]] expansion in Europe |
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* ''Dagobert I'' - one of the last powerful Merovingian kings, and the first king [[burial|buried]] in the [[royal]] [[tomb]]s at St. Denis. |
* ''Dagobert I'' - one of the last powerful Merovingian kings, and the first king [[burial|buried]] in the [[royal]] [[tomb]]s at St. Denis. |
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Revision as of 23:50, 10 February 2007
The term Merovingian refers to a line of Frankish kings who ruled central Europe in the 6th, 7th, and 8th centuries. They occupy almost a transitional role from earlier Germanic tribal rule to the feudal system and Roman-influenced medieval law. The dynasty derives its name from Merovech, a Frankish chief who helped beat back Attila the Hun on behalf of the Roman Empire.
The Merovingian kings declined in power, with gradually more control passing into the hands of the major domus, or mayor. By the end of the Merovingian reign kingship was merely titular, and with the aid of the pope the major domus was to become recognised as king, and kingship passed to the Carolingians.
Famous Merovingian kings include:
