1. The Early Middle Ages
Chapter 7, Section 1

2. Dark Ages Middle Ages Medieval Period

3. Western Europe in Decline
At it’s height, the Roman empire included much of Western Europe
Rome unified the region, spread classical ideas, the Latin language, and Christianity
…Germanic conquerors would later build on these traditions

4. Germanic Tribes Goths, Vandals, Saxons, & Franks
Very different culture from the Romans’ (mostly farmers/herders)
No cities; No written laws

5. Germanic Tribes Lived in small communities with unwritten customs
Kings were elected by tribal councils
Warriors swore loyalty to the king in exchange for weapons and a share of the plunder

6. Europe between 400 – 700 AD
Germanic tribes cut Europe into small kingdoms

7. The Franks Germanic Kingdom—formerly the Roman province of “Gaul”
King Clovis, of the Franks, conquered Gaul
Gaul  “France”

8. King Clovis Ruled lands in Frankish custom, but preserved Roman legacy
Converted to Christianity—the religion of his subjects
The pope became a powerful ally (who was the leader of the Christian Church of Rome)

9. Muslims Threaten Europe
As Germanic tribes carved up Europe, a new power was coming across the Mediterranean Sea…
Islam

10. Islam Began in Arabia in the 600s Founded by Muhammad
Qur’an (Koran) = holy book

11. Christians Feel Threatened
Leaders of the Church and Christian kingdoms were alarmed when Muslim armies overran Christian lands
Eventually, Muslims crossed into France after conquering Spain

12. Charles Martel Rallied Frankish warriors
Christians kept Muslims at bay in the Battle of Tours (732)
Sign from God?

13. Muslims Continued to rule Spain
Advanced no farther into Western Europe
Eventually, trade relations were established

14. Charlemagne Grandson of Charles Martel—became King of the Franks
Briefly unites Western Europe (France, Germany, & Italy)
Charles  Charles the Great  Charlemagne

15. A “New” Emperor
799—Pope Leo III asked Charlemagne for help against rebellious nobles
He had Leo’s opponents arrested
Christmas Day (800)—pope showed his gratitude by placing a crown on Charlemagne’s head
Charlemagne = “Emperor of the Romans”

16. Impact Revived the idea of a unified Christendom
Outraged the Eastern Roman Emperor (Constantinople)
Deepened the split between Eastern & Western Christian worlds
Began a long-lasting power struggle between popes and kings

17. 7.1 Study Guide